The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said all supermarkets in the province of Cebu are compliant with the ongoing price freeze following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a nationwide state of national emergency for one year due to typhoons “Tino” and “Uwan.”

In a statement on Sunday, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque also reported stable prices and adequate supply of basic necessities in Cebu City, following market inspections on 13 November.

Roque said all establishments visited complied with the automatic price freeze on basic necessities, including sardines, instant noodles, bread, coffee, processed milk, salt, bottled water, candles and laundry soap.

The DTI chief, together with central and regional officials, inspected Gaisano Grand Fiesta Mall in Talisay, GMall Supermarket in Soriano Avenue, SM Supermarket in Mabolo and Pacific Mall Metro Supermarket in Mandaue.

No breach

The team found no significant irregularities and noted sufficient inventory levels across inspected stores.

Moreover, to sustain consumer protection, DTI has deployed nationwide monitoring teams to strictly enforce the price freeze and conduct daily field inspections in affected areas. As of November 10, the DTI’s Fair-Trade Enforcement Bureau likewise reported stable prices and adequate supply based on its inspection of 75 firms across Metro Manila.

Under the Republic Act 7581 or the Price Act, prices of basic necessities are automatically frozen at their prevailing levels for 60 days in areas declared under a state of calamity.

Businesses violating the automatic price freeze may face administrative and/or criminal charges, including imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines of up to P1 million.