Marcos calls for monitoring of prices of digital devices

Senator Imee Marcos called on the government to monitor prices of digital devices needed for online learning and prevent unnecessary and unreasonable price surges when classes resume in August.

"The government should closely monitor prices of mobile phones and other electronic devices and send profiteers to jail if found to have taken advantage of students," Marcos said.

She added that poorer students may end up lagging behind in their lessons or give up online learning altogether if budget constraints prevent them from buying the equipment they need. Such equipment include mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and pocket wireless fidelity (Wifi) units.

"If gadgets for online learning are too pricey, how will parents be able to afford them? We need to help students continue their education by reducing the prices of such gadgets," Marcos explained.

She further noted that dealers should offer student discounts or longer installment plans for gadgets instead of raising prices when the demand becomes higher.