Basic necessities back to SRPs as price freeze ends

Prices of basic necessities are now back to within the suggested retail prices (SRP) following the end of the 60-day price freeze, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Sunday.

In a statement, the DTI said that as of Saturday, May 16, 2020, prices of basic necessities are no longer covered by the price freeze that started in March.

"The lifting of the price freeze will not affect the prices and supply monitoring and enforcement activities being conducted by the DTI, DA, and DOH and our partner enforcement agencies," said Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez.

"These shall continue as usual following the directive of President Duterte to go after erring businesses and individuals, and deal with violators to the highest and fullest extent of the law," he elaborated.

Among the basic goods, under the DTI, covered by the price freeze are canned fish and other marine products, locally manufactured instant noodles, bottled water, bread, processed milk, coffee, candles, laundry soap, detergent, and salt.

Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture covers basic goods such as rice, corn, cooking oil, fresh, dried, and other marine products, fresh eggs, fresh pork, beef and poultry meat, fresh milk, fresh vegetables, root crops, sugar, and fresh fruits.

Basic goods under the Department of Health (DOH) cover essential drugs, firewood and charcoal for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and household LPG and kerosene under the Department of Energy (DOE).

According to the DTI, consumers and retailers can refer to the SRPs published by the DTI, DA, and DOH for the purchase and sale of basic necessities and prime commodities. — DVM, GMA News