Members of the Tacloban City Local Price Council Committee (LPCC) had its meeting on Friday, March 13, presided by Executive Assistant Atty. Christian De Dios to discuss the updates on the price monitoring of prime commodities and medical supplies in view of Proclamation No. 22 “State of Public Health Emergency” due to coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

According to the Department of Trade (DTI)-Leyte Acting Provincial Director Ma. Delia Corsiga, prices of basic necessities and medical supplies remain stable in Tacloban, and there will be a normal supply of goods, as the agency has conducted daily monitoring since last March 8.

Also discussed was the implementation of a price freeze for 60 days on all basic necessities pursuant to the Price Act or Republic Act No. 7581.

Among the basic goods under the jurisdiction of the DTI, covered by the price freeze are canned fish and other marine products, locally manufactured instant noodles, bottled water, bread, processed milk, coffee, candles, laundry soap and detergent, and salt, while essential drugs are under the Department of Health.

On the other hand, the Department of Agriculture (DA) will monitor prices of basic agricultural goods such as rice, corn, cooking oil, marine products, fresh eggs, fresh meat (pork, beef, and poultry), fresh milk, fresh vegetables, root crops, sugar, and fresh fruits.

Meanwhile, DTI- Leyte also encouraged consumers to buy only what they need and refrain from hoarding, be vigilant in purchasing goods at its prevailing prices and avoid patronizing retailers selling overpriced medical supplies such as alcohol and masks.

As the retailers are not allowed to raise prices of basic necessities, consumers are likewise enjoined to report business establishments that sell goods beyond the price freeze by calling One-DTI (1-384) or reporting to the office of DTI- Leyte, Negosyo Center and other concerned agencies.

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?: K.E. Napala/ CIO