Photo credit: Jun Pasa

As Typhoon Kristine leaves a trail of destruction, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has taken swift action to protect consumers in areas hit hardest by the storm. With the devastating floods and landslides prompting a state of calamity in Albay province and Magpet town in Cotabato, the DTI has officially implemented a price freeze on essential goods to ease the burden on affected communities. This measure, which began on October 22, 2024, ensures that basic necessities like canned goods, bottled water, and detergent remain at stable prices for the next 60 days.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque emphasized the agency’s commitment to shielding consumers from unfair price hikes during this challenging time. “Under the Marcos Jr. administration, we are prioritizing the protection of our fellow Filipinos. Our regional and provincial offices are closely monitoring prices and supply levels in affected areas,” she stated.

The DTI is working hand-in-hand with the Office of the Civil Defense to enforce the automatic price freeze, which kicks in as soon as a state of calamity is declared. Roque added, “We’re ready to take strong action against any violations, including imposing fines or even filing administrative cases.”

Under the Price Act, or Republic Act No. 7581, the 60-day price freeze covers essential items like noodles, bread, coffee, candles, and soap, keeping them at their current prices to prevent any additional stress on communities already dealing with the storm's impact. While the DTI focuses on these everyday goods, other government agencies are doing their part as well—such as the Department of Agriculture, which is monitoring prices of rice, vegetables, and meat, and the Department of Health, which is keeping tabs on the cost of essential medicines.

For businesses, this is a crucial reminder: anyone found violating the price freeze could face stiff penalties, including fines from PHP 5,000 up to PHP 1,000,000 or even imprisonment. The price freeze will stay in effect until lifted by the President or until the state of calamity designation is withdrawn.

As the situation continues to evolve, the DTI assures the public that they are on top of price monitoring efforts, helping to ensure that, at the very least, essential goods remain accessible and affordable while recovery is underway.