A price freeze on basic necessities is now in effect in select areas in Central Luzon which were placed under a State of Calamity. This is in response to the recent calamitous events caused by the southwest monsoon and Typhoon Egay in Central Luzon.
The provinces of Pampanga, Bataan, and Bulacan are among those heavily affected, prompting authorities to take urgent measures to alleviate the impact on affected residents. The said provinces are already placed under the State of Calamity including the Municipalities of Camiling and Paniqui in Tarlac, and Zaragosa in Nueva Ecija.
As part of the government’s efforts to mitigate the impact on affected communities, a price freeze has been implemented in accordance with Republic Act No. 7581, also known as the Price Act.
The Price Act empowers the government to enforce automatic price control measures on essential needs during a state of calamity. This initiative aims to protect consumers from unjustified price increases, ensuring that basic necessities remain accessible and affordable to those affected by the disaster.
According to the Price Act, the price freeze will be in effect for the duration of the condition that brought it about, but not for more than 60 days unless sooner lifted by the President. During this time, prices of basic necessities are held at prevailing rates or the average price for the current month.
The Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 (DTI-3), in close collaboration with local government units (LGUs) is actively monitoring the implementation of the price freeze to safeguard consumers’ rights and welfare. Any violations of the price control measures will be met with swift enforcement actions to ensure compliance and uphold consumer protection.
The government remains committed to supporting the affected communities in Central Luzon and providing essential assistance during this challenging period.
“We understand the challenges faced by our communities in Central Luzon during these difficult times. With the implementation of the price freeze on basic goods and prime commodities, we aim to ease the burden on affected residents and ensure that essential necessities remain affordable and accessible,” DTI-3 OIC Regional Director Brigida T. Pili said.
The public is encouraged to report any instances of price manipulation or violations to the DTI or local authorities. ♦
