The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) expanded its price freeze to several areas in the country, amid the onslaught of ‘Kristine.’
The agency first announced that they will be enforcing a price freeze on basic necessities in areas declared under state of calamity, on Wednesday, October 23.
As of Friday, October 25, the DTI updated the list of areas covered by the price freeze.
The price freeze will be taking effect in the following areas:
- Province of Albay
- Province of Camarines Norte
- Province of Catanduanes
- Province of Cavite
- Province of Camarines Sur
- Magpet, Cotabato
- Calbayog City, Samar
Additionally, two areas in Sorsogon being; Bulan and Donsol, are covered by the price freeze.
The three areas in Quezon Province included are:
- Tagkawayan
- Mulanay
- Gen. Luna
The areas in Eastern Samar included are the following:
- Maydolong
- Borongan City
- San Julian
- Sulat
- Taft
- Can-Avid
- Dolores
- Oras
- San Policarpio
- Arteche
- Maslog
- Jipapad
The automatic 60-day price freeze enforced is under Republic Act 7581, or the Price Act. It will take effect to maintain the stable prices of necessities, once a state of calamity is declared.
When enforced, consumers and establishments are asked to comply with the 60-day freeze on essential items like canned goods, instant foods, bottled water, milk, bread, and soap.
