The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao Oriental conducted price monitoring operations to ensure that retailers comply with the price freeze order.
The move follows the series of earthquakes that recently struck several towns in the province, affecting supplies and consumer activities.
DTI monitoring teams inspected stores in Manay, Tarragona, Mati City, Baganga, and Caraga to check the prices of basic necessities.
Inspectors closely monitored the costs of canned goods, milk, coffee, soap, salt, instant noodles, and bottled water in different establishments.
According to DTI Provincial Director Ma. Joycelyn F. Banlasan, the initial results showed that prices remained within the Suggested Retail Price (SRP).
She assured the public that DTI would continue its monitoring to prevent any form of overpricing or consumer abuse.
Banlasan reminded business owners to follow the Consumer Act of the Philippines, warning that violators will face appropriate legal sanctions and penalties.
She also urged consumers to immediately report any overpricing or price manipulation observed in their respective areas.
The price monitoring operation was conducted following the declaration of a province-wide State of Calamity through SP Resolution No. 18-152-10-2025.
With this declaration, a sixty-day price freeze on basic goods is automatically implemented across Davao Oriental.
DTI Davao Oriental reaffirmed its commitment to protect consumers and ensure price stability during the recovery period after the recent earthquakes.
