Filipinos may have a reason to celebrate towards the end of the year, as the Department of Trade and Industry assured that there will be no price increase on basic necessities and prime commodities until the end of the year.

In a statement on Tuesday, the DTI said prices of basic necessities and prime commodities will remain stable until the end of 2025, as the agency continues to coordinate with manufacturers and retailers to maintain the current suggested retail prices (SRPs).

Updated suggested retail prices

The DTI provides updated suggested retail prices for basic necessities and prime commodities such as, but not limited to, canned and other food products, bottled water, dairy, and common household or kitchen supplies.

“This initiative aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to uphold consumer welfare by maintaining stable and affordable prices of essential goods, particularly during the holiday season when demand traditionally increases,” the DTI statement read.

Moreover, the DTI commitment was reaffirmed during the Consumer Welfare Month Stakeholders’ Appreciation Night, where the Department called upon the manufacturers’ help to maintain the current prices at least until the end of the year.

Regular market monitoring

“To ensure price stability, DTI intensifies regular market monitoring and enforcement activities nationwide through its Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau and regional and provincial offices to prevent overpricing, profiteering, and supply disruptions,” it said.

Earlier, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque made an inspection of the flower market in Dangwa, Manila, to ensure that prices of flowers are within the budget of Filipinos who will visit their departed loved ones for the upcoming All Souls’ and Saints’ Days this 1 and 2 November.

Consumers are encouraged to report any violations or instances of overpricing through the DTI Consumer Care Hotline (1-DTI or 1-384), via email at consumercare@dti.gov.ph, or ReportToSec@dti.gov.ph, the DTI said.