The agency said business establishments and stores are compliant to suggested retail prices or SRP.
The Consumer Protection Division of DTI disclosed that as of September 30, 695 firms were found compliant to the SRP which is issued depending on the season and changes of the current situation, like the recent onslaught of Super Typhoon Karding.
“There is a stable supply of goods in the region and based on our weekly price monitoring, all firms we checked are compliant to the SRP of goods which the DTI issues to promote consumer protection and welfare,” said Consumer Protection Division Chief Jerry Maglalang.
Just after Karding ravaged parts of the region, the DTI deployed price monitoring teams from its provincial offices to check prices of Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities or BNPCs.
The DTI urged the public that in cases of unreasonable price increases and violations of the price freeze, consumers can reach DTI’s consumer hotlines (1-DTI / 1-384), or email at [email protected] or visit their nearest DTI Provincial Office.
A price freeze is currently implemented in areas under a state of calamity as an aftermath of Karding in Nueva Ecija province; Dingalan in Aurora; San Miguel in Bulacan; Macabebe and Candaba in Pampanga; and Concepcion in Tarlac.
Pursuant to Republic Act (RA) No. 7581 as amended by RA 10623 or the Price Act, a price freeze is automatically implemented when a state of emergency is declared. This is in effect for 60 days for basic goods, and 15 days for household LPG and kerosene, from the date of declaration or until sooner lifted.
The DTI urged retailers to comply with the price freeze while consumers are advised to be guided accordingly to avoid fines and penalties including imprisonment.