THE country’s largest oil refinery, Petron Bataan Refinery (PBR) located in Limay, Bataan will resume full operation in June, according to Limay Vice Mayor Richue Jayson David.
The PBR ceased operation in February 2021 on alleged unfair government taxation scheme favoring other local refineries and besides it suffered low income due to pandemic. The vice mayor hopes that Petron workers affected by temporary closure will be given due attention by the management.
It was learned that in its most recent stockholders meeting, Petro President and CEO Ramon Ang said the oil giant is currently completing several requirements to be able to resume operation. The PBR produces 1,800 barrels per day but Covid-19 pandemic hit a hard blow making it suffer a net loss of P11.4 Billion in 2020.
Last January however, Petron joined the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) to make a rebound and enjoy tax perks offered by the AFAB. Limay town’s tax share from Petron was not in any way affected by the changes, Limay Mayor Nelson David told a news briefing. “Hindi naman kami apektado, lumaki pa nga kita ng Limay,” the older David said.
