DTI: PHL has enough supply of alcohol, disinfectants, basic goods

The Philippines has enough supply of alcohol, disinfectants, and basic supplies to cater to the local demand amid the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the government said Thursday.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), local manufacturers have assured that regular stocks in their warehouses are good for as much as one month, and more can be produced should the need arise.

"Consumers need not worry as we have enough stocks of basic goods in the market," Secretary Ramon Lopez said in an emailed statement.

"The DTI is working closely with the manufacturers and retailers to ensure continued flow of supply in the market and the reasonableness of prices of basic goods including disinfectants."

Panic buying was reported across stores in Metro Manila on Wednesday, in fear of a lockdown due to the COVID-19 spread.

The Philippines has so far recorded 49 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 16 of which were reported Wednesday.

According to the DTI, companies such as Green Cross Inc. and Philusa Corp. have assured them that there is sufficient supply for the coming months, and no price hikes will be seen across brands Green Cross, Rhea, and Cleene.

Lopez said supermarkets and other retailers have also agreed to strictly implement two bottles of alcohol per transaction policy.

In terms of rice, the DTI said the National Food Authority (NFA) has also assured that there is sufficient supply in the country. —KBK, GMA News