The San Juanico Bridge fiasco prompts DTI to take action.
After initially declaring the province of Samar under state of emergency last May 20, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) now steps in to declare a 60-day price freeze to be imposed in the entire province.
In a formal statement, the DTI emphasized the importance of compliance among business establishments, reminding them to adhere strictly to the price ceiling on basic necessities during the period until July 19.
The agency underscored that violations of the price freeze order could lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and imprisonment.
The DTI also called on the public to help enforce the price controls by reporting any retailers, distributors, or manufacturers selling goods above the prescribed prices.
Reports can be submitted via the One-DTI hotline at 1-384 or through email at ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph.
This initiative aims to prevent profiteering and ensure that essential goods remain accessible to residents amid the ongoing crisis.
Under the Price Act, violators engaging in price manipulation face imprisonment from five to fifteen years, alongside fines ranging from P5,000 to P2 million.
Those found violating the price ceiling specifically face sentences of one to ten years and fines between P5,000 and P1 million.
These stringent measures are intended to deter illegal practices and protect consumers from exploitation during emergencies.
The price freeze covers a wide range of basic necessities, including rice, corn, bread, fresh vegetables, root crops, pork, beef, poultry, eggs, milk, coffee, sugar, cooking oil, and salt.
Additionally, it includes household essentials such as laundry soap, detergent, firewood, charcoal, candles, and certain medicines deemed essential by the Department of Health.
As Samar grapples with both logistical hurdles and economic pressures, the government’s swift action aims to stabilize the supply and affordability of critical goods.
The continued enforcement of the price freeze and vigilant monitoring are vital in safeguarding the welfare of Samar’s residents during this challenging period.
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