DTI secures manufacturers’ support to maintain prices of basic goods

MANILA, Philippines — Manufacturers have committed to holding off price increases of basic goods until the end of the year, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“There will be no price increase for basic necessities and prime commodities until the end of the year. All manufacturers have agreed to this,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said in a Viber message yesterday.

The DTI said in a statement that during the recent Consumer Welfare Month Stakeholders’ Appreciation Night, it called on manufacturers to help maintain current prices at least until the end of the year.

The agency continues to coordinate with manufacturers and retailers to maintain the current suggested retail prices in line with the directive of President Marcos to keep essential goods affordable during the holiday season.

While the DTI has secured the manufacturers’ support to keep prices of basic necessities and prime commodities stable, Roque said the agency is still in discussions with manufacturers of Noche Buena items, or those purchased for the Christmas Eve meal.

“We are still in talks with the manufacturers, but we will inform the public next week,” she said.

Basic necessities cover canned sardines, milk, coffee, bread, noodles, salt, detergent or laundry soap, bottled water and candles.

Meanwhile, prime commodities include canned meat products, condiments, toilet soap and batteries.

The DTI is encouraging consumers to report any violations or instances of overpricing through the DTI Consumer Care Hotline (1-DTI or 1-384) or via email at [email protected].ph or [email protected].