Big-time fuel price hike prompts South Cotabato drivers to tank up

Motorists line up at a gasoline station along General Santos Drive in Koronadal City on Monday, July 20, ahead of Tuesday’s big-time fuel price hike. Diesel prices will increase by as much as P10.68 per liter, prompting many drivers to fill up early to avoid higher costs. (Photo by Amiel M. Cagayan) KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Long lines formed at gasoline stations in Koronadal City on Monday afternoon as motorists rushed to fill up their tanks ahead of Tuesday’s steep fuel price hike. Fuel companies will raise diesel prices by as much as P10.68 per liter, gasoline by up to P3.65 per liter, and kerosene by P11.77 per liter—the biggest increase among petroleum products. READ: New double-digit hikes for diesel, kero set on July 21 Article continues after this advertisement At around 3 p.m., a steady queue of vehicles had formed at a gasoline station along General Santos Drive, with the line stretching close to the national highway. A motorist who identified himself only as Mel said he decided to fill up early to lessen the impact of the fuel price hike on their household budget. Some motorists also arrived before the afternoon rush, anticipating longer lines once employees and students headed home from work and school. Several drivers said they also planned to limit their trips in the coming days to conserve fuel, using their vehicles only for essential travel until prices stabilize. Ronnie Pama, a pump attendant, said most of the vehicles in line were diesel-powered, which will see a double-digit increase. Article continues after this advertisement He added that while some customers asked to fill portable fuel containers, the station generally limits purchases to a full tank for regular vehicles and does not dispense fuel into containers so more customers can buy fuel before the price hike. READ: US launches 9th night of strikes on Iran as it hits out at Gulf states Article continues after this advertisement National energy officials attributed the latest fuel price hike to rising global oil prices triggered by renewed tensions and recent developments in the Middle East. They said the interconnected nature of global oil markets has pushed up fuel costs in oil-importing countries, including the Philippines. /mcm Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again. Your subscription has been successful.