Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday vowed to step up its monitoring of basic goods and commodities as manufacturers assure they would hold prices steady until April 30.

According to Philippines News Agency, this initiative aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to maintain price stability amid global uncertainties and oil price shocks. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that the police will enhance their presence in local markets and grocery stores to observe the prices of essential products.

Gen. Nartatez stated, "Your PNP remains committed to assist the DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) in protecting the interest of the consumers. We are intensifying our monitoring measures to make sure that retailers and manufacturers will not impose unauthorized price increase on basic goods." He further warned that any attempt at price manipulation would be addressed in accordance with the law, stating, "Profiteering and price manipulation will not be tolerated amid the challenges we are in. Hahabulin namin ang sinumang lalabag dito (We will go after anyone who violates this)."

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced that manufacturers are committed to holding prices steady to assist consumers affected by the conflict in the Middle East. The price freeze applies to 205 products listed under the DTI stock-keeping units, which include canned goods, bread, bottled water, candles, and detergents. Additionally, the DTI noted that with existing inventories in supermarkets and groceries, no immediate logistical adjustments are necessary.