DTI orders retailers anew to follow SRP

CEBU, Philippines — Retailers are urged to follow the new suggested retail prices (SRPs) of noche buena products as demand for these items is seen to pick up in the coming weeks through the holiday rush.

The Department of Trade and Industry-Cebu will distribute copies of the new SRPs to major retailers starting today, said Zaide Bation, consumer welfare head at the agency.

Market monitoring will also be conducted to make sure SRPs are followed, she told The FREEMAN yesterday.

"If possible, sales promotion like price discounts can also be another way to further lower the price from the SRP. As this will increase consumer patronage," she said.

Based on the 2017 noche buena SRP list, ham and creamer are among that have increased in prices while some brands of pasta have decreased.

Based on the list, prices of ham products range from P137 to P949 depending on the brand and net weight.

Costs of other products also depend on the brand and net weight.

Prices of fruit cocktail range between P46.10 and P207.90; pasta ranges from P20.60 to P88; keso de bola's prices range from P149 to P459; spaghetti sauces are sold between P19.10 to P83.30; tomato sauce at P11.90 to P75.90; and creamer sells between P43 and P69.

Moreover, elbow and salad macaroni's SRP is between P15.25 and P93.45; sandwich spread can be bought between P20 and P196; mayonnaise is at P28 to P257.25; while cheese is sold between P46.60 and P588.50.

The DTI earlier said the supply of noche buena products has remained stable.

Meanwhile, consumers are advised to always check the expiry date and the price tag of the products prior to purchase.

They should also ensure the shell price and cashier price are the same; and carefully check and compare the weights of competing brands.

Profiteering is punishable under Republic Act 7581 or the Price Act.

The SRP list applies nationwide and to both supermarkets and wet markets. (FREEMAN)