By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6 assured the public of fair prices and adequate supplies of essential goods for Undas 2024 (All Saints and All Souls Days) on November 1-2, 2024, with ongoing price monitoring across the region in preparation for the season.
At a press conference on Wednesday, October 30, Regional Director Rachel N. Nufable reported that recent monitoring showed stability in the suggested retail prices (SRP) of essential goods, including bottled water and candles, since January.
In Iloilo City, prices for some bottled water brands have decreased by up to 12 percent, while certain candle brands have seen a reduction of 4.34 percent.
According to the agency’s SRP, bottled water ranges from PHP 8.25 to PHP 75, depending on brand and size, while candles range from PHP 33.42 to PHP 177.71, varying by brand, size, and quantity.
Atty. Jazer P. Miranda, Officer-in-Charge of the Consumer Protection Division, noted that while prices for some essentials have risen slightly compared to previous years, the increases are minimal.
He added that major supermarkets have complied with SRP regulations, with some items priced even lower than the SRP due to logistics and operational efficiencies.
As for flowers, the DTI urged vendors to consider customers’ purchasing capacity when setting prices, given anticipated price hikes due to Typhoon Kristine’s impact on logistics and supply chains.
Nufable emphasized the importance of competitive yet fair pricing, adding, “This time of remembrance is significant for many, and DTI Region 6 is committed to safeguarding consumer welfare.”
Miranda reiterated the importance of adhering to SRP standards, warning that violators could face penalties ranging from PHP 1,000 to PHP 300,000 if they cannot justify any price deviations.
“We allow retailers to explain any price increases if they can provide reasons such as logistics or overhead costs; otherwise, sanctions may be imposed,” he said.
To strengthen monitoring efforts, local price monitoring councils will be activated, with all local government units (LGUs) in the region required to comply with directives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The DTI also urged consumers to begin canvassing early to find suppliers offering lower prices.
“If you have enough time, canvass to look for suppliers that can offer relatively lower prices,” Miranda suggested.
Additionally, the DTI reminded consumers to verify proper labeling and ensure they purchase authentic, SRP-compliant goods.
