The year was 1996 and the demand of the time was for more efficient energy sources to fuel the burgeoning economy of the country. Public clamor was for more liberal oil policies to benefit more people and talks of oil deregulation occupied the discussion in the halls of Congress and other debate forums. Hopeful that the oil deregulation would eventually be realized, and armed with a dream to providing affordable fuel to the country -- Fernando L. Martinez, together with a group of other maverick entrepreneurs, formed Eastern Petroleum Corporation. The company was formally registered on December 10, 1996 and became one of the country's pioneering new petroleum players. EPC's two-pronged vision was to help fuel the country's growth engine by providing quality affordable oil products while developing growth opportunities for the greatest number of Filipinos by helping them become entrepreneurs. Fernando L. Martinez became its Chairman and CEO. Currently, Mr. Martinez is the Chairman of the Independent Philippine Petroleum Companies Association (IPPCA) formerly known as the New Petroleum Players Association of the Philippines. GREEN IS CLEAN The EPC was a breath of fresh air during the time when the country was experiencing an energy crisis. This was also the time when the market was clamoring for cleaner-burn fuel products. True to its vision, EPC encouraged the development of eco-friendly innovations. At the turn of the new millenium, the company successfully launched its 5th Generation Premium Unleaded Gasoline under the brand name INTENSITY. This paved way for low emission, clean air and clean burn products for the Philippine market. MUSHROOMING STATIONS EPC pioneered in the concept of franchising the GasolinahangBayan that gave local entrepreneurs the opportunity to start their own energy stations. These GasolinahangBayan's are found in Metro Manila and in the countryside where the quality of service is wanted. The company also helps prospective energy station owners arrange with banks for financing assistance and guide them through their growth. This program has enkindled the enterprising Pinoy spirit and has already spawned dozens of success stories from EPC's retailers. To, date, there are more than 30 GasolinahangBayan stations spread out in Metro Manila, in its surrounding regions and in Mindanao, bringing quality products at very reasonable prices for our motorists who needs it the most. BULK ADVANTAGE To readily service the needs of its customers, EPC operates bulk plants strategically located in Pasig City for Luzon and in General Santos City for Mindanao. These bulk plants boast of high capacity pumps and storage tanks capable of pumping up to 5 million liters of various petroleum products daily. COMMITTED Being small has its advantages, and many of EPC's "lean and mean" staff give the kind of personalized service that makes the company tick and stand out. This brand of service may be seen from top to bottom -- from the members of the Board of Directors down to the truck drivers. Perhaps it is this type dedication that has made EPC land in the honor roll of Top 1000 Corporations in the Philippines within 5 years. Truly an amazing feat for EPC. Rest assured that Eastern Petroleum Corporation will continue to bring brighter innovations, better opportunities, and the best services toward a brighter tomorrow for the Filipino people.