MANILA, Philippines — Authorities seized an estimated P25 million worth of illegal liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks and refilling equipment during a raid in Caloocan City, leading to the arrest of eight individuals, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) reported.

In a statement Sunday, the CIDG said the operation, carried out on February 14, 2025, from 3:00 AM to 10:58 AM, was led by the CIDG Manila District Field Unit in coordination with representatives from Petron Corporation. 

Law enforcers implemented a search warrant in Barangay 163, Sta. Quiteria, targeting violations of Republic Act No. 11592 or the LPG Industry Regulation Act.

CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas D. Torre III said authorities confiscated 38 empty LPG cylinders, 42 filled cylinders, two weighing scales, two component hoses, two refilling pumps, a compressor, a bullet tank, and four vehicles, including a Mitsubishi van, an Isuzu ELF truck, a Kia van, and a HOWO truck.

The arrested individuals were identified as Dario of Valenzuela City; Jeorge of Pangasinan; John Paul of Pampanga; Simeon of Bulacan; and Orvin, Wilfredo, Serphil, and Herbert, all from Masbate. 

Meanwhile, five suspects remain at large, namely Jay, Edigene, Babylyn, Joseph, and Joachim, the CIDG report said.

The eight arrested suspects have been charged before the National Prosecution Service for violating Section 40(c) in relation to Section 38(b)(2) of RA 11592, which penalizes unauthorized cross-filling and the manufacture, distribution, refilling, or sale of LPG cylinders bearing a registered trademark without the brand owner’s approval. 

Similar charges will be filed against the five at-large suspects.