DTI studying requests for noche buena price increases

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is evaluating requests for price increases for noche buena items and canned goods.

The DTI has received applications from manufacturers of noche buena items and canned meat and sardines to raise prices by less than one percent to about three percent, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said during the “Laging Handa” public briefing yesterday.

Lopez said manufacturers are requesting for price adjustments to cover increases in their costs.

“These are being studied now by our consumer protection group if it is reasonable to have an increase,” he said.

Suggested retail prices (SRPs) of manufacturers for noche buena products as well as basic necessities and prime commodities need to be approved by the DTI.

Among the products on the SRP list for noche buena or the Christmas Eve meal are ham, fruit cocktail, cheese, sandwich spread, queso de bola, spaghetti, salad macaroni, spaghetti sauce and mayonnaise.

Basic necessities and prime commodities such as canned and other food products, bottled water, dairy and common household or kitchen supplies are also covered by the SRP list.

Lopez said the DTI is closely monitoring those products to protect consumers.

“At the end of the day, our consumers are advised to really select brands they can consider value for money,” he said.

He said since many brands are expected to have promos for the upcoming Christmas season, consumers are encouraged to go for those offering good deals.

Meanwhile, Lopez said the DTI supports having a price cap on swab tests.

He said while the price cap on swab tests is under the Department of Health (DOH), the DTI is willing to provide support to the agency.

“We are waiting and coordinating with the DOH. And we will help in implementation, monitoring of the price cap,” he said.