Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to make sure that there is no price increase in basic and prime commodities during the holiday season until yearend.

According to Philippines News Agency, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro announced the directive during the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits. She highlighted that the DTI has committed to maintaining current prices of essential commodities through the year’s end, as instructed by President Marcos.

Marcos emphasized the importance of strict monitoring and implementing the maximum suggested retail prices (SRP) for imported rice and other essential food items. He also instructed the DTI to maintain coordination with manufacturers to prevent any price hikes.

Castro noted the cooperation of manufacturers and stakeholders in this initiative, stating that while it is not a price freeze, there is a strong commitment to keeping pr
ices stable. Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque assured that industry stakeholders are collaborating closely with the government to stabilize market prices, particularly during the holiday period.

The DTI highlighted that manufacturers have assured their support in keeping prices stable in response to the President’s directive. To ensure compliance, the DTI is deploying monitoring teams nationwide to prevent unreasonable price increases in public markets and supermarkets. The agency is committed to preventing overpricing, profiteering, and supply disruptions to guarantee price stability for Filipino households.

Consumers are encouraged to report any violations through the DTI Consumer Care Hotline (1-DTI or 1-384) or via email at [email protected] or [email protected].