The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has enforced price freeze on basic commodities in Samar on San Juanico Bridge restrictions and in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur and Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur, which have been placed under a state of calamity due to torrential rains.
With price freezes automatically activated in calamity-stricken areas for a period of 60 days, the DTI assures the public of its unwavering commitment to market stability.
“In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision under the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ agenda, our teams are on the ground—monitoring prices, talking to retailers, and making sure that your needs come first. You are not alone. The government is working hard to ensure that basic necessities remain available and affordable for your families,” said DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque in a statement.
Following vehicle restrictions imposed due to major rehabilitation works on the San Juanico Bridge, the DTI reminds business establishments in the entire province of Samar to comply with the 60-day price freeze on basic necessities. This is crucial to prevent any undue price increases that could burden consumers in the region.
Meanwhile, a state of calamity has been declared in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur and Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur. These declarations are due to the torrential rains and flash floods brought by the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ).
Under Republic Act No. 7581 or the Price Act, as amended by RA 10623, prices of BN are automatically frozen at their prevailing prices for sixty (60) days once a state of calamity is declared in an area. This price freeze shall be automatically terminated after 60 days unless sooner lifted by the President.
To ensure the stability of prices and availability of supply, the DTI continuously monitors products under its jurisdiction such as canned fish, locally manufactured instant noodles, bottled water, bread, processed milk, coffee, candles, laundry soap, detergent, and salt. The official lists of prevailing prices for these products in areas under a state of calamity are regularly posted and published on the DTI website.
The DTI reminds all business establishments that violations of the price freeze carry penalties under the Price Act. Those found to have violated the price freeze will face a penalty of imprisonment for a period of one to ten years, or a fine ranging from PHP 5,000 to PHP 1,000,000, or both, at the discretion of the court.
Consumers are urged to report retailers, distributors, and manufacturers that sell basic necessities above their prevailing prices. You can report violations through the DTI Consumer Complaints Assistance and Resolution System (CAReS) or by visiting the nearest DTI Regional or Provincial office.
