MANILA, Philippines- Inanunsyo ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) nitong Miyerkules na epektibo na ang price freeze sa lahat ng pangunahing bilihin sa National Capital Region (NCR) kasunod ng deklarasyon ng state of calamity ng Metro Manila Council (MMC) dahil sa hagupit ni Bagyong Carina at ng southwest monsoon o Habagat.
“The price freeze, effective immediately, aims to protect consumers from unjust price increases during this time of crisis,” pahayag ni Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual sa abiso.
“We are committed to ensuring that basic goods remain affordable and accessible to all affected residents,” dagdag ni Pascual.
Kasado ang price freeze habang umiiral ang state of calamity.
Sinabi ng DTI chief na mahigpit na nakikipag-ugnayan ang Trade Department sa regional office nito sa NCR upang bantayan ang sitwasyon at tiyakin ang availability ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan.
Saklaw ng price freeze ang mga pangunahing bilihin tulad ng bigas, mais, tinapay, sariwang gulay, roots crops, karne ng baboy, baka, poultry, itlog, gatas, kape, asukal, mantika, asin, laundry soap, detergent, firewood, uling, kandila, at ilang gamot na tinukoy na “essential” ng Department of Health.
“We have activated our monitoring teams to strictly enforce the price freeze. Those found violating the law will face severe consequences, including imprisonment and substantial fines. We urge all establishments to comply with the price freeze and prioritize the well-being of our fellow citizens during this difficult time,” wika ni Pascual.
“We understand the challenges faced by our kababayans in Metro Manila due to the typhoon. Rest assured that the DTI is working tirelessly to maintain price stability and safeguard the welfare of consumers,” dagdag ng Trade chief.
Hinimok naman ang consumers na isumbong ang overpricing o paglabag sa DTI Consumer Care Hotline sa 1-384 o mag-email sa [email protected]. RNT/SA
