Five individuals were arrested in Mariveles, Bataan on April 24, 2026, following an operation against the illegal distribution of tampered and counterfeit LPG cylinders, authorities reported.
The operation was conducted by joint elements of RSOG-RID3, CIDG Bataan PFU, and Mariveles Municipal Police Station after a complaint from a brand protector regarding the alleged sale of fake LPG products at a gas sales center in Barangay Alasasin.
Operatives carried out a buy-bust operation, where a poseur buyer successfully purchased an LPG cylinder later found to be tampered and bearing a counterfeit seal. This led to the immediate arrest of the suspects and a subsequent inspection of the premises.
Authorities discovered an ongoing refilling and alteration activity involving LPG cylinders. Recovered from the site were hundreds of cylinders of various sizes, a delivery truck loaded with tampered containers, refilling equipment, and materials used for resealing and repainting. The total estimated value of the seized items reached ₱4.5 million.
Charges for violations of the Revised Penal Code, Republic Act 623, and Batas Pambansa Blg. 33 are being prepared against the arrested individuals.
Police Regional Office 3 Regional Director PBGEN Jess B. Mendez underscored the seriousness of the offense, noting the risks posed by illegal LPG operations.
“Hindi ito simpleng iligal na negosyo. Delikado ito. Kapag tampered ang LPG, puwedeng magdulot ng sunog o pagsabog—direktang banta sa buhay at ari-arian ng ating mga kababayan,” Mendez said.
He added that the operation reflects PRO3’s continuing efforts to strengthen law enforcement and ensure community safety, in line with the Focused Agenda of PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr..
“We will sustain aggressive and intelligence-driven operations against these illegal practices. This is part of our commitment to keep communities safe and to hold accountable those who put lives at risk for profit,” he said.
Mendez also called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious LPG-related activities.
“Mahalaga ang papel ng publiko. Sa tulong ng tamang impormasyon, mas mabilis nating mapipigilan ang ganitong uri ng operasyon,” he added.
