DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez | DTI Photo
MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has not yet decided on whether to impose price hike moratorium on basic goods despite requests from manufacturers.
The DTI recently released an expanded suggested retail price (SRP) with several adjustments on the price of canned sardines and meat products, taking into consideration the increase in production costs.
This prompted some consumer groups to suggest the implementation of a moratorium on price hikes in basic commodities.
The agency welcomes the suggestion however the decision still depends on the manufacturers.
“Tignan natin kung paano natin mapapakiusapan ang mga manufacturers, ang mga negosyo ng canned products…Tignan natin if they will cooperate,” said DTI Usec. Ruth Castello.
According to a study by consumer group, Laban Konsyumer, the prices in DTI’s expanded SRP shot up by 70%, thus, they insist on a moratorium.
During a visit with the Department of Agriculture (DA) officials in major markets today, Castelo suggests that DA should also update its SRP on agriculture products for the benefit of consumers.
The agencies found out that the prices of spices such as onion and garlic marked a staggering increase of P10.00 to P30.00 per kilogram.
Fish products such as milkfish, galunggong and tilapia also increased in prices by P10.00 to P60.00 per kilogram.
The DA vowed to review its SRP while both agencies promised to continuously monitor market prices of basic goods to protect the rights of consumers. – Mon Jocson / Marje Pelayo
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