Rep. George Arnaiz (Neg. Or., 2nd District) said he is willing to conduct a congressional inquiry into the high costs of petroleum products in the province.

Arnaiz issued the statement amid mounting public clamor against a perceived monopoly of fuel prices in Dumaguete City and Negros Oriental, with pumping stations carrying a uniform rate for gasoline and diesel fuel.

In Dumaguete, a liter of gasoline costs at least P6 more, while diesel fuel is higher by at least P3 a liter, compared to the prevailing pump prices in other areas like Cebu and Metro Manila.

Retailers and pumping station owners here pointed to high transportation costs, having to bring in the fuel products from Bacolod City, Negros Occidental or Cebu, as the main reason for the spike in gasoline and diesel fuel prices in Dumaguete and other areas in Negros Oriental.

Arnaiz said once the depot for three major oil companies resumes operations in Amlan, Negros Oriental, a drop in fuel prices in the province can be expected.

If necessary, a congressional inquiry may be initiated to stop the spiraling prices of petroleum products in the province.*JFP

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