Negros oriental: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Negros Oriental has confirmed that major business establishments in typhoon-hit areas are adhering to the nationwide price freeze on basic goods.

According to Philippines News Agency, Krystle Jade Bato, spokesperson and OIC chief of the Consumer Protection Division of DTI-Negros Oriental, reported that inspections conducted late last week revealed that prices of basic necessities and prime commodities were either at or below the suggested retail price, in compliance with the price freeze. The DTI’s two-day monitoring and inspection covered establishments in the severely affected areas of Canlaon City, Guihulngan City, and Vallehermoso, following the devastation of Typhoon Tino.

A 60-day price freeze has been implemented across the nation after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared a state of calamity due to the widespread damage caused by Typhoon Tino. Bato noted that businesses in Canlaon City were able to resume operations roughly two days after the typhoon struck.

In addition, the DTI team extended their inspections to Bais City and Manjuyod, areas still suffering from the effects of an October 26 molasses wastewater spill from the United Robina Corporation Bais Distillery. These areas are also under a state of calamity due to the environmental disaster, which has led to the displacement of thousands of residents and the contamination of Bais Bay and the Ta±on Strait Protected Seascape.