COMMUNICATION TO THE PUBLIC

Given the concerning situation of increasingly recurrent and prolonged blockades occurring in different regions of the country and the risks this implies for Colombians, the Colombian Association of Oil and Gas (ACP), representing the wholesale liquid fuel distribution companies, wishes to inform that:

1. The supply of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel (aviation fuel) is an essential service for Colombians, which has been affected by the increasing roadblocks, mainly in Cundinamarca, Meta, Huila, Santander, and Cesar. The Colombian Association of Oil and Gas warns that, so far this year, at least 180 blockades have been identified with a duration of up to nine days, which has interrupted the dispatch of liquid fuels from wholesale supply plants to service stations and airports.

• As a consequence of this issue, the supply of 20 million gallons of fuels (about 11% of national demand), essential for the mobility of people, the transport of food, medicines, goods, among other essential products for households, is at risk.

• The most affected plants are those in Mansilla in Facatativá, Sebastopol in Santander, and Apiay in Meta. The situation has caused shortages in some service stations in these departments, especially during the months of July and August. It is important to highlight that the Mansilla plant supplies fuels to Bogotá, to El Dorado airport, and to part of the Orinoquía region.

• In light of this issue, wholesale distributors have multiplied their efforts to implement logistical alternatives that allow for the continued guarantee of liquid fuel supply to all Colombians.

• We believe that peaceful protest is important for building a more inclusive country, as long as it does not violate the rights of those who choose not to protest. Furthermore, we reject the use of force and the increasing blockades that threaten the provision of an essential service such as fuel supply.

• The guild makes a call to the national Government, to the authorities, and to the protesters to reach agreements through dialogue and consensus., always under the guarantee of respect for human rights. In addition, we extend our solidarity with those affected by the blockades: farmers, transporters, merchants, among others.

• Finally, wholesale companies reaffirm their willingness to continue working in a coordinated manner with national and local authorities, to ensure the provision of fuel supply services.