Domestic manufacturers are urging government to implement proactive measures, such as access to raw materials and reducing logistics bottlenecks, to make price stability truly sustainable.
Elizabeth H. Lee, chairman of the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI), said as the group commended the recent issuance of Noche Buena price guide by the Department of Trade and Industry, reflecting manufacturers cooperation to hold off increases or minimally increasing prices of basic goods during the holidays.
Lee said that manufacturers are absorbing the higher cost just just to help alleviate expenses by consumers. “Manufacturers have stepped up, absorbing higher costs from fuel, logistics, packaging, and raw materials — even as recent typhoons disrupted local supply chains. This commitment reflects their dedication to consumers and to sustaining holiday traditions,” said Lee.
However, she pointed out that the reality is that such a situation is not sustainable in the long run. The high cost of food are driven by the peso’s depreciation makes imported inputs more expensive; fuel and logistics costs remain elevated; packaging materials have risen in price globally; and recent typhoons would obviously disrupt local supply chains especially in hardest hit areas.
“These pressures can build and manufacturers are absorbing them at this time. Larger firms may manage better than smaller producers,” she warned.
Thus, she called for proactive measures to make price stability truly sustainable. Strengthening agricultural recovery programs, ensuring affordable access to raw materials, reducing logistics bottlenecks, and maintaining predictable trade and regulatory policies will help ease current pressures.
These steps will move us toward resilience that extends beyond seasonal adjustments and secures long term stability for both industry and consumers.
This way, we can not only safeguard consumers from sudden price shocks but also support the long term competitiveness of local manufacturers.
“With continued government support, industry can keep food affordable while safeguarding growth potentials— a win for both manufacturers and Filipino households,” she concluded.
