Manila: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Negros Oriental said on Tuesday it is coordinating with major retailers in the province to ensure that prices of basic necessities and prime commodities would not spike due to the conflict in the Middle East.

According to Philippines News Agency, Krystle Jade Bato, DTI-Negros Oriental spokesperson, mentioned that major retailers like Prince Warehouse and Lee Super Plaza have confirmed that there has been no price movement in essential goods so far. DTI provincial chief Juliet Banogon has directed the collection of data from larger businesses in anticipation of a potential price hike in the coming weeks.

Bato explained that if fuel prices increase, the prices of basic necessities and prime commodities are likely to follow, although such changes will not be immediate. She advised that the usual stock inventory of establishments selling these items lasts about one month, while some may last only up to two weeks.

Bato urged the public to refrain from stockpiling essential goods at this time, assuring that there is sufficient supply to meet everyone's needs. The DTI is prepared to issue directives against hoarding, such as limiting the quantities retailers can sell to each customer, if reports of unnecessary bulk purchases are received.

Furthermore, Bato noted that the DTI does not oversee the prices of meat, fish, and vegetables. This responsibility falls under the Department of Agriculture or its local counterparts in cities and municipalities.

Bato emphasized the importance of establishing price coordinating councils at both provincial and local levels to proactively monitor the movement of essential goods, especially during emergencies and critical times.