On Wednesday, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced a price freeze on basic necessities in the National Capital Region (NCR), following the Metro Manila Council's (MMC) declaration of a state of calamity in the area.
In the statement, the DTI noted that all affected residents would be protected from unjust price increases, ensuring that essential products remain affordable and accessible.
The devastating effects of Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon prompted government officials to take action on closely monitoring the prices of essentials goods classified by the Department of Health (DOH).
"This price control includes essential goods such as rice, corn, bread, fresh vegetables, roots crops, pork, beef, poultry, eggs, milk, coffee, sugar, cooking oil, salt, laundry soap, detergent, firewood, charcoal, candles, and certain medicines classified as essential by the Department of Health," the DTI's statement read.
Monitoring teams have been activated to strictly monitor and enforce the price freeze during the state of calamity.
Establishments are encouraged to comply with the said rule and prioritize the citizen's well-being. Those who will violate the law are bound to face severe consequences, which includes imprisonment and substantial fines.
The DTI is coordinating with other relevant government agencies to closely monitor and ensure compliance on the prices of the said items.
“We understand the challenges faced by our kababayans in Metro Manila due to the typhoon. Rest assured that the DTI is working tirelessly to maintain price stability and safeguard the welfare of consumers,” DTI Secretary Fred Pascual stated.
Any sightings and news on overpricing or violations can be reported to the DTI Consumer Care Hotline at 1-384 or email them at [email protected].
