Gas stations turn into relief hubs

Pilipinas Shell said it is converting most of its gas stations in areas affected by the Taal Volcano eruption into relief centers.

Under the company's Project Shelter, 46 Shell retail stations surrounding the impacted municipalities have been designated as emergency response sites.

“The Project Shelter sites are open 24/7 to provide first aid, toilet facilities, hydration, free charging of mobile gadgets and windshield cleaning service. These sites also serve as drop off points for in-kind donations,” it noted.

Normal business operations continue at its Tabangao Refinery as the company said it remains alert and cautiously monitor the situation, Pilipinas Shell said in a report to the stock market.

Priority is safety

Safety remains a priority for the company, the Pilipinas Shell reported as it stated that its staff and business partners in the refinery are safe and accounted for.

“While air quality has been assessed as good in the area of the refinery, the company issued its staff with face masks and safety glasses as a precautionary measure,” the report indicated.

The Taal situation is being constantly monitored and business protocols are in place to respond to any potential change in circumstances, according to the oil firm.

These sites also serve as drop off points for in-kind donations.

Disaster response mobilized

Pilipinas Shell added it joins the rest of the Shell companies in the Philippines in providing disaster response support to disaster zones.

Relief operations have been mobilized in two major evacuation centers in Batangas City through the Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. and the Malampaya Foundation Inc., it added.

Philippine Institute of Volcanic and Seismology has raised Alert Level 4 on Taal Volcano on 12 January 2020. The Alert Level 4, which warns for a possible hazardous explosive eruption, remains in effect to this date.

Pilipinas Shell indicated that it stands by its business principles and responsibilities as a partner in nation building.