DOE Warns LPG Firms to Comply with LIRA or Face Penalties

The Department of Energy (DOE) is urging all liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry participants to comply with the LPG Industry Regulation Act (LIRA) or risk severe penalties, including fines, business closures, and imprisonment.

Failure to comply with LIRA may result in fines of up to ₱100,000 per violation, permanent disqualification from LPG-related activities, and imprisonment for up to 12 years.

“These penalties are designed to protect consumers, prevent hazardous incidents, and maintain the integrity of the LPG industry sector,” said DOE Undersecretary Alessandro O. Sales.

Sales added that strict safety enforcement ensures only legally sourced and properly handled LPG products reach the market, reflecting the government’s commitment to public safety and product quality.

LIRA mandates adherence to industry-wide health, safety, security, environmental, and quality standards across LPG activities, including importation, refining, storage, transportation, and distribution.

The law also regulates the manufacturing, repair, and disposal of LPG pressure vessels, seals, and related equipment to ensure industry safety.

The DOE reminded industry participants to comply with DOE-DTI Joint Department Circulars and DOE Department Circulars, which require securing proper licenses, permits, and certifications.

Since 2023, the DOE has actively enforced LIRA, imposing penalties on multiple non-compliant industry players to uphold safety standards.

As of December 2024, the Oil Industry Management Bureau reported approximately 6,952 registered LPG industry participants across the country.

The DOE reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe and reliable LPG supply through continued enforcement of LIRA and collaboration with industry stakeholders.