DAVAO CITY – Davao del Norte Gov. Edwin Jubahib clarified on Tuesday that he has had no direct communication with Petronas Malaysia regarding the supposed purchase of 44 million liters of crude oil and gasoline he earlier announced.
On March 25, Jubahib disclosed plans to source fuel from Malaysia to help cushion rising oil prices in the province amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. However, Petronas issued a statement on March 29 denying involvement in any such transaction.
"Petronas wishes to clarify that it is not aware of, nor involved in, any such arrangement, and has not entered into any related agreement or commitment," the company said, stressing that its current priority is ensuring a steady and reliable fuel supply in Malaysia.
Jubahib explained that his pronouncement was exploratory in nature.
"My statement to the media was clear – that our economic cooperation with the Malaysian Highness is purely negotiation. It is exploratory, meaning our initiative to seek help with them may or may not prosper," he said.
He added that the continuing conflict in the Middle East has prompted governments worldwide to respond to the global fuel crisis.
"As governor of the province, I felt the urgency that something has to be done within my capacity to help remedy the situation and prevent an impending economic catastrophe," Jubahib said.
According to him, the initiative stemmed from established ties with Malaysian officials and was aimed at exploring the possibility of sourcing at least 44 million liters of diesel fuel to augment the province's dwindling supply.
"The engagement is not intended to undermine any legal process or regulations set forth by both our national governments. Any development from this international partnership, should it prosper, will be properly coordinated with the Department of Energy as the appropriate governing agency, following procurement procedures – whether through a government-to-government arrangement or via the private sector," he added. (PNA)
