Manila: Manufacturers of basic and prime commodities remain committed to keeping prices unchanged until mid-April, with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque expressing hope that any future adjustments will be minimal. Roque assured the public that the DTI continues to engage in regular meetings with manufacturers and conducts ongoing price monitoring for essential goods.

According to Philippines News Agency, Roque noted that while some price upticks have been observed in remote areas, these instances are considered isolated. "In general, there really have been no changes," she stated during a media interview on Monday night. Previously, the DTI had announced that manufacturers and retailers pledged to maintain current prices until April 16, despite rising oil prices linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Roque acknowledged that any price adjustments concerning the 205 products under the DTI's stock keeping units (SKUs) list are understandable given current global developments. She emphasized that there is no issue with supply and expressed optimism about maintaining stable prices. "It's hard for me to speculate on price. But we're really hoping to keep the prices," she remarked.

Roque further mentioned that if any price increases occur, they are expected to be minimal and acceptable to manufacturers, based on previous meetings. However, she declined to provide specific rates for potential future price hikes to avoid speculation.