Surigao solon blasts ‘fake news’ over illegal fuel toll in Siargao
REELECTIONIST Surigao Del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco Jose “Bingo” Matugas II has branded as “fake news” a circulating social media post that accuses his family members are the ones behind the collection of illegal toll from fuel transporters in Siargao Island.
“Gasoline prices here are more expensive because petroleum companies have to pay additional as fuel is transported from Surigao City to the island,” Matugas said in belying the claims.
“There’s no toll being collected for the entry of fuel on the island. That is a blatant lie,” he added.
Facebook page “Bantay Nakaw Coalition” has accused Matugas and his family, led by Surigao del Norte Gov. Lalo Matugas, of allegedly halting fuel shipments entering Siargao if the transporters failed to pay P15.00 for every liter of fuel shipment entering the famous tourist spot which was recently devastated by Super Typhoon “Odette” last December.
The group claimed that pump prices ballooned to as high as P100 per liter due to the alleged illegal toll being imposed on fuel transporters.
Matugas noted from April 26 to May 1, FJ Fuel Station pegged the price per liter of premium gasoline at P79.23, unleaded at P78.73, and diesel at P82.86.
Meanwhile, the Espineli Fuel Station’s premium gasoline is priced at P80.73 per liter and diesel at P83.86, according to the lawmaker.
“There’s no P100 per liter as mentioned in the fake news post,” said Matugas.
