Only nine percent or 186 out of 205 stock keeping units of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) have increased their prices while the vast majority of 91 percent have stable prices, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported.
In particular, DTI said prices of canned sardines in tomato sauce, instant mami noodles, laundry soap, candles, bread, toilet soap, and batteries remain stable. These widely consumed goods account for 91% or 186 out of 205 stock-keeping units under the basic necessities and prime commodities list, as manufacturers did not request any increase in their suggested retail prices.
The DTI noted that price stability has been sustained despite higher costs for raw materials, packaging, logistics, and toll-packing, after manufacturers deferred price increases in response to the Department’s call last year for industry cooperation.
Building on this cooperation, DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque reaffirmed that the Department will sustain strict price monitoring to ensure that this balance between consumer protection and business fairness continues.
“The DTI stays committed to protecting consumers while recognizing the economic realities faced by manufacturers. Through regular price monitoring and open dialogue with manufacturers, the agency helps ensure that any price adjustments are fair and properly justified. At the same time, it provides consumers with timely guidance to support informed choices, while encouraging businesses to uphold ethical and competitive pricing practices,” Secretary Roque said.
