Authorities from the Police Regional Office 3 arrested five individuals and seized Php4.5 million worth of tampered LPG cylinders in a crackdown on illegal and hazardous operations.
CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Authorities arrested five individuals and seized an estimated Php4.5 million worth of tampered and counterfeit LPG cylinders in an anti-illegal operation in Mariveles, Bataan on April 24, 2026.
In a statement released on Sunday, April 26, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) said the operation stemmed from a complaint filed by a brand protector regarding the alleged sale of unauthorized LPG products at a gas distribution center in Barangay Alasasin.
Joint operatives from the Regional Special Operations Group–Regional Intelligence Division 3 (RSOG-RID3), Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Bataan Provincial Field Unit, and the Mariveles Municipal Police Station carried out a buy-bust operation, where an undercover agent successfully purchased an LPG cylinder later confirmed to be tampered and bearing a counterfeit seal.
The transaction led to the immediate arrest of the suspects and a subsequent inspection of the facility, where authorities discovered an ongoing illegal refilling and alteration operation involving LPG cylinders.
Seized from the site were hundreds of cylinders of varying sizes, a delivery truck loaded with tampered containers, refilling equipment, and materials used for resealing and repainting LPG tanks. The total estimated value of the confiscated items reached Php4.5 million.
Authorities are preparing charges against the suspects for violations of the Revised Penal Code, Republic Act 623, and Batas Pambansa Blg. 33.
Police Brig. General Jess B. Mendez, PRO3 Regional Director emphasized the serious risks posed by illegal LPG activities, noting that tampered cylinders could lead to fires or explosions.
“This is not just an illegal business—it is dangerous. Tampered LPG cylinders can cause fires or explosions, posing a direct threat to lives and property,” Mendez said.
He added that the operation highlights PRO3’s sustained efforts to intensify law enforcement operations and protect public safety in line with the Philippine National Police’s focused agenda.
“We will continue 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.
PRO3 also urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious LPG-related activities, stressing that community cooperation plays a vital role in preventing such illegal operations.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding communities across Central Luzon through sustained enforcement and public engagement. (Jason de Asis)