AMIDST the looming La Niña phenomenon in the country, the government will further tighten its price monitoring of essential commodities nationwide.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) continues to closely monitor price manipulation and other illegal activities such as hoarding.
During a public briefing this Tuesday, DTI Consumer Protection Group Assistant Secretary Atty. Amanda Nograles mentioned that among the agency’s initiatives is coordinating with local government units (LGUs) to reactivate the Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC) for price monitoring.
Through this, DTI will have partners at the LGU level in monitoring the prices of goods.
According to the official, the reactivation rate of the Local Price Coordinating Council nationwide is now at 87 percent.
“We were advised that over one thousand LPCCs have been reactivated. They are not yet fully-operational.”
“So, from our understanding, once all are reactivated, they will be operational. They will be our partners in monitoring prices in supermarkets, grocery stores, and even in markets,” according to Asec. Amanda Nograles, Consumer Protection Group, DTI.
In line with this, DTI ensured that those manipulating the prices will be apprehended and charged accordingly.
5 major manufacturers to implement voluntary price freeze—DTI
Meanwhile, Nograles mentioned that several manufacturers have hinted at implementing a voluntary price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities.
“So, the start dates vary depending on when the manufacturers informed the DTI. But in general, some are effective until July 10, while others until June 30; their effective dates vary,” said Nograles.
This measure aims to assist consumers and control price hikes amid the impending La Niña phenomenon.
This will also ensure the stability of supply for essential goods.
Items covered by the voluntary price freeze include processed meat items, processed milk items, bottled water, instant noodles, and others.
