Manila: Prices of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) will remain unchanged until April 16, following a strategic meeting held among officials of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), manufacturers, and retailers on Saturday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DTI announced that representatives from manufacturers and retailers have agreed to delay any price increases until April 17. This decision aims to maintain price stability amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East that has impacted logistics and inventory. The agreement includes a commitment from BNPC manufacturers and retailers to absorb current pressures to ensure stability.

The meeting included representatives from prominent companies such as Alaska Milk Corporation, Chattrade Enterprises, Commonwealth Foods Inc., Century Pacific Food Inc., Ecossential Foods Corp, and several others. Additionally, representatives from the Canned Sardines Association of the Philippines were present. Retailers' group representatives included those from Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc., SM Markets, Metro Retail Stores Group Inc., and the Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association.

Last Friday, the DTI clarified that Malaca±ang's declaration of a state of national energy emergency does not automatically trigger a price freeze. However, the DTI has reinforced nationwide monitoring to ensure price and supply stability. Under Republic Act (RA) No. 7581, a 60-day price freeze is automatically implemented upon the declaration of a state of calamity in an area.

The DTI oversees 726 variants of essential products, with 196 SKUs carrying a Suggested Retail Price (SRP). These include items such as canned sardines, canned meat, coffee, processed milk, instant noodles, condiments, laundry soap, toilet soap, candles, salt, batteries, bottled water, and bread. The public is encouraged to visit the DTI website and its social media channels for a complete list of NCPCs and their SRPs.