DTI flags 14 supermarkets for selling above SRP

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has issued notices of violation to 14 supermarkets for selling goods higher than the suggested retail prices (SRPs). 

According to the DTI, the notices of violation were issued to: CVC Supermarket Caloocan (Caloocan); Super 8 Supermarket Magallanes (Makati); Ever Supermarket Concepcion (Malabon); Ever Supermarket – Manila (Manila); SM Hypermart (Muntinlupa); Ever Supermarket – Agora (Navotas); Super 8 Supermarket Sucat (Parañaque); Puregold Sucat (Parañaque); Puregold Cubao (Quezon City); Rustan’s Gateway (Quezon City); San Roque Supermarket (Quezon City); Super 8 Grocery Warehouse (Quezon City); Wellcome Supermarket FCM Fairview (Quezon City); and Ever Gotesco Commonwealth (Quezon City).

During price monitoring activities conducted by the DTI from Feb. 2 to 6, the supermarkets were found to be non-complaint to the SRPs.

Among the products being sold by the supermarkets at 2.27-to 16.88-percent or P0.50 to P8 higher than the SRPs were bottled water, sardines, meat loaf, luncheon meat, corned beef, evaporated milk, coffee refill, fish sauce, vinegar, detergent soap, and candle.

“With the Notice of Violation, the 14 supermarkets are expected to explain in 48 hours why they are selling at such prices that are above the set SRPs. Then it’s either they immediately adjust their prices according to the SRPs or they will be imposed with appropriate penalties,” Trade Undersecretary Victorio Mario Dimagiba said. 

Based on DTI’s Department Administrative Order 06, Series of 2007, the 14 supermarkets could face a minimum administrative fine of P20,000 to a maximum of P1 million.

“Again, we implore retailers and manufacturers to review their product prices every now and then to be certain that they comply with the list of SRPs for basic necessities and prime commodities. For those that have been very cooperative with the calls of the DTI on reasonable prices, we appreciate your help in ensuring consumer protection,” Dimagiba said. 

While there were 14 supermarkets issued notices of violation, the DTI found 52 other grocery stores to be compliant to the SRPs.

Dimagiba said the DTI would continue its monitoring of all supermarkets and grocery stores in Metro Manila to ensure that goods being sold to the public are within the published SRPs.