Baguio city: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Cordillera warned business establishments that take advantage of the current fuel crisis to engage in profiteering and hoarding of products that such actions will not only result in a fine but also include a jail term.

According to Philippines News Agency, DTI-Cordillera director Raymond Panhon emphasized the importance of public vigilance in reporting violations during a press briefing at the Cordillera Commerce and Consumer Chronicles. "We at the DTI are vigilant, and we also need the public's help in reporting anyone who engages in acts that violate the law. They can report to any DTI office or other government office, as such acts are prohibited," Panhon stated in Filipino. He urged business owners not to exploit the crisis, acknowledging the difficulties everyone is facing.

Lawyer Samuel Gallardo, assistant DTI-Cordillera director, highlighted the department's efforts to monitor the situation by increasing manpower in provincial consumer protection units. These units, drawn from other DTI divisions, are tasked with frequently checking basic necessities and commodities. Gallardo noted that the region currently has a buffer stock of 30 to 60 days and that local price coordinating councils, chaired by mayors and governors at the provincial and municipal levels, have been activated to monitor prices and supplies.

In Baguio City, an online application launched about two weeks ago to facilitate public reporting has not received any complaints related to profiteering or hoarding. Gallardo also mentioned that there is no record of panic buying in the city, attributing this to active responsible consumerism campaigns that discourage panic buying to prevent wastage and unnecessary spending on unused goods.

Both officials called for public calm, assuring that the government is committed to ensuring the equitable distribution of products to all.