President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered a price freeze on basic and prime commodities until the end of the year to maintain price stability and protect consumers during the holiday season.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer, Atty. Claire Castro announced the directive on Monday during a media interview on the sidelines of President Marcos’ participation in the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur.

“Alinsunod sa kautusan ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. na hindi magkakaroon ng paggalaw sa mga presyo ng mga bilihin bago ang holiday season, inanunsyo ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) na walang price increase sa basic at prime commodities sa bansa hanggang sa matapos ang kasalukuyang taon (In accordance with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that there should be no movement in the prices of goods before the holiday season, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced that there will be no price increase for basic and prime commodities in the country until the end of the current year,” Castro said.

She noted that before departing for Kuala Lumpur last Saturday, the President instructed the DTI to strictly monitor and enforce the maximum suggested retail prices (SRP) for imported rice and other essential food items.

According to Castro, Marcos also directed the DTI to maintain close coordination with manufacturers to sustain current price levels and prevent unjustified price increases.

Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque assured that the DTI is working closely with industry stakeholders to stabilize market prices, particularly during the peak holiday period.

“All concerned agencies are doing their part to keep prices fair and reasonable for consumers,” Castro said, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to ensuring affordability and protecting Filipino households from inflationary pressures.