LPG shortages hit the Philippines

The Philippines is facing a shortage in supplies of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) due to a 30% increase in demand between November and December 2008. Delays in distributing LPG shipments by Total Philippines Inc. and Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. have also exacerbated shortages. The Department of Energy (DoE) said it is investigating allegations of hoarding, although it has yet to determine the extent of the shortage. (January 27, 2009)