The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported that most Noche Buena items did not see price increases, and any price hikes were limited to under 5%, affecting fewer than 50% of the items.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH's Damdaming Bayan on Monday, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque mentioned that they had discussed this matter with manufacturers and brands of Noche Buena items.
"Yung items na tumaas ang presyo are the fruit cocktail but not too much. Pero in general most items hindi po nagtaas ng presyo," said Roque.
Moreover, the DTI displayed price listings of all Noche Buena items in markets to help consumers easily check the prices and guide their buying decisions.
"They have to be vigilant talaga [mga mamimili] na nandon ‘yung mga presyo ng mga noche buena items na hindi nagtaas ng presyo. Example macaroni, mayonnaise, ‘yung all purpose cream, sandwich spread, ‘yung quezo de bola, CDO chicken ham, ‘yung mga holiday ham, hindi ‘yun nagtaas ng presyo," Roque stated.
Meanwhile, Roque urged the public to exercise caution when buying decorations, especially Christmas lights.
Roque suggested that consumers verify if the lights they intend to purchase have the DTI seal to ensure they are safe to use.
"Kasi sometimes ‘yung mga kababayan din natin, they just want to buy ‘yung mura or kahit hindi sila masyadong nagtitingin sa mga dapat nilang tingan when they buy goods. Kasi dapat maging vigilant din to protect themselves at tyaka ‘yung pamilya nila,"said Roque.
Roque also recommended that consumers report any items they come across that are not in line with the suggested retail price.
In anticipation of the New Year’s festivities, the DTI will continue monitoring fireworks sales nationwide and will release a list of fireworks that are considered harmful.
