Trade chief orders price watch in Leyte

Trade and Industry Secretary Peter Favila has directed his regional office and other provincial government offices in Southern Leyte to help the town of St. Bernard by ensuring that prices remain stable and basic commodities are made available to its residents.

According to Favila, "prices in St. Bernard and nearby areas must remain at the same level as before the landslide so as not to compound the suffering and misery of the people."

Favila assured that they were closely monitoring the prices and supply levels in these areas and guarding the people against businessmen who would try to prey on hapless consumers.

"This is a time of great need for the residents and the government, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which will use its powers to ensure the welfare of its citizens," Favila said.

The trade secretary warned that "a surge in prices in these areas will be met with strict penalties and the full enforcement of the Price Act."

The DTI, which implements the Price Act, may recommend to the President price ceilings on basic goods during calamities.

So far, however, prices of basic necessities and prime commodities are stable in St. Bernard, Trade Undersecretary for Consumer Welfare Zenaida Cuison Maglaya said.

This was based on the price monitoring report filed by Southern Leyte provincial director Michael Nuñez. Supply of basic goods such as canned fish, milk, coffee and candles remains adequate.

"Our provincial office is closely watching the supply of processed goods, especially canned products, batteries, bread and candles to prevent artificial shortages," said Maglaya. "We have also asked our provincial office to coordinate closely with the Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC) and the Municipal Disaster Coordinating Council (MDCC) to immediately make an assessment of the supply situation in St. Bernard and the surrounding areas."

According to the Price Act or Republic Act 7581, the LPCC shall conduct price and supply monitoring activities on basic and prime commodities in their respective provinces, municipalities and cities as part of emergency measures in times of calamity.

The Price Act also states that the implementing agencies may activate rolling stores, stock government warehouses and storage facilities with prime commodities in sufficient quantities, mobilize available government transport facilities and other utility vehicles in coordination with the Department of Transportation and Communications.

"This is a time when great compassion must be exhibited and I am calling on businesses in the area to help ensure continuous supply of basic goods to the people of St. Bernard," Favila said. — Marianne Go