The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reminded shoppers this holiday season that the price for Noche Buena products and basic commodities is still based on the 2019 price list.
Aside from the assurance that consumers can still buy such products at a fair price, the agency assured that supply will not be a problem.
“Supply is not an issue kasi ang manufacturers already have raw materials na anytime kapag kailangang mag-produce ng mas marami ay makakapag-produce sila (Supply is not an issue because manufacturers already have raw materials that they can utilize anytime they need to produce more),” DTI USec. Ruth Castelo stated.
The DTI warned that complaints may be filed against violators of the suggested retail price (SRP).
“Kung hindi nila ibinalik ang presyo nila (If they do not revert their prices), we will file formal charges. It is considered profiteering under the Price Act na may (with a) penalty na (of) ₱5,000 to ₱2M and imprisonment of 5 to 15 years,” Castelo pointed out.
The DTI is advising consumers to buy in supermarkets and grocery stores instead of small shops since these are under their monitoring.
“Hanapin din nila yung mga promo packages or bundle packages na binibigay ng mga manufacturers for Noche Buena products. Makakatipid sila ng ₱20 to ₱70 kung ito yung bibilhin nila (Find promo packages or bundle packages offered by manufacturers. They can save ₱20 to ₱70 if they will buy these),” Castelo stated. – Report from Kenneth Paciente
