DTI issues 60-day price freeze in four Palawan areas

MANILA, Philippines — A 60-day price freeze has been imposed on basic necessities in Puerto Princesa City as well as in Narra, Brooke’s Point and Aborlan towns in Palawan following the declaration of a state of calamity in these areas.

In a statement yesterday, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) cited Republic Act 7581 or the Price Act, which provides that prices of basic necessities are automatically frozen in areas placed under a state of calamity.

The price freeze covers basic goods under DTI jurisdiction, including canned fish and other marine products, processed milk (evaporated, condensed and powdered), coffee, laundry or detergent soap, candles, bread, iodized salt, instant noodles and bottled water.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the price freeze is intended to protect consumers from profiteering.

“The DTI is on the ground, actively monitoring prices to ensure that essential goods remain accessible to all affected communities. Let me be clear: any attempt at profiteering will be met with swift and decisive action,” Roque said.

Business owners who violate the price freeze will face imprisonment of one to 10 years or a fine ranging from P5,000 to P1 million.

To ensure compliance, the DTI-Palawan monitoring and enforcement team will be on the lookout for price movements and supply of essential goods.