Based on the actual monitoring of major groceries, supermarkets and public markets in the seven provinces of Central Luzon, the Department of Trade and Industry Regional Office III reported that prices of basic goods and prime commodities are still stable and within the prevailing prices.
The report submitted by the Consumer Protection Division to DTI-3 RD Judith P. Angeles showed that based on store visits by the DTI price monitoring teams for the first week of April 2020 in supermarkets, public markets and retail establishments in Central Luzon, the prices of almost all items monitored were within the Suggested Retail Price table. The report showed that there were no increases in the prices of goods. RD Judith Angeles noted that since the declaration of a public health emergency on March 9, 2020, there is an Automatic Price Freeze on basic goods and prime commodities. In addition, the DTI monitoring teams also noted that the stores they visited complied with the IATF advisories on limiting the number of items purchased per buyer, especially basic goods and prime commodities. Groceries and supermarkets also implemented social distancing policies for their customers and staff.
The monitoring teams from the DTI provincial offices also reported that sardines, noodles and other canned goods were the most saleable items, thus, they have the lowest stock level. The teams also noted that stock inventories of stores ranged from three days to two months. Bulk purchases of basic goods by local government units and private sectors for their relief operations is the major reason for low stocks in the retail establishments. Despite these, DTI have urged stores to facilitate the replenishment of their stocks even while there is an Enhanced Community Quarantine. The DTI noted that under IATF rules, there should be unhampered movement of essential goods for the provision of goods and services for consumers.
It was observed that groceries and supermarkets in the region were open from 6 am to 7 pm. It was also noted that the major problems encountered by the stores were lack of manpower, irregular and delayed delivery of goods, as well as limited volume of deliveries. Despite these, stores followed the advisories of DTI regarding social distancing, wearing of facemasks, provision of sanitizers and limiting of number of goods purchased per customer.
Consumers are reminded to report any case of hoarding or overpricing to the DTI through its hotline 1-384 or text 09178343330. Consumers may also look for advisories and send a message to DTI-3’s Facebook page atDTI.Centralluzon or email ask@dti.gov.ph.
