The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI has enforced a price freeze on basic necessities in 44 local government units (LGUs) in Iloilo following the declaration of a state of calamity due to a dengue outbreak.
The price freeze, which began on Aug. 20, 2024, covers both Iloilo City and the province’s 42 municipalities, including Passi City.
The freeze, effective until Oct. 19, 2024, is part of the government’s efforts to protect consumers from price hikes during emergencies.
Under the Price Act (Republic Act No. 7581), prices of essential goods such as canned fish, processed milk, detergent, bread, and bottled water are frozen at their prevailing rates for 60 days when an area is declared under a state of calamity.
“DTI conducts daily monitoring of retailers to ensure that prices of basic necessities adhere to the price freeze,” said Grace Benedicto, Consumer Protection Division Chief at DTI Region VI.
The DTI is working closely with local government units (LGUs) to ensure compliance. According to Rachel Nufable, DTI Region VI Director, the agency’s provincial offices and the Consumer Protection Division are monitoring retailers regularly to safeguard consumers.
Retailers found violating the price freeze may face legal penalties, including imprisonment of one to ten years or fines as determined by the court.
The public is urged to report any violations to DTI Regional Office VI or their nearest DTI Provincial Office.
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