DTI releases SRP of Noche Buena items, says prices remain unchanged

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Friday released the list of suggested retail prices (SRPs) of Noche Buena products for the information and guidance of the consumers as the holiday season approaches.

In a statement, the DTI said the SRP guide includes products such as ham, keso de bola, cheese, sandwich spread, mayonnaise, pasta—spaghetti noodles, elbow and salad macaroni— spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, and all-purpose cream.

“The DTI thanks the manufacturers for heeding the call not to increase prices demonstrating their sense of solidarity with our consumers this Christmas despite the COVID-19 pandemic. In doing this, we give wider choices of affordable noche buena products for the Filipino consumers,” said Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez.

“Our efforts to safely reopen the economy to bring back more jobs while keeping prices relatively stable will make the Christmas season merrier,” Lopez added.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) released the list of suggested retail prices (SRPs) of Noche Buena products for the information and guidance of the consumers as the holiday season approaches. | via @Ted_Corderopic.twitter.com/BUduiWY20F

— GMA News (@gmanews) November 26, 2021

The DTI’s Consumer Protection Group (CPG), meanwhile, ensured the supply availability and price stability of the Noche Buena items for the consuming public.

“As COVID cases continue to decline and vaccination efforts intensify, the spirit of the holiday season compels our consumers to purchase their favorite Noche Buena products for their families to serve at their dining tables,” said Trade Undersecretary Ruth Castelo.

For this year's Noche Buena SRP list, the DTI said 110 shelf-keeping units (SKUs) or product variants retained their previous year's prices, while 20 SKUs saw price reductions.

“To avoid panic buying and ensure value for money, the public is advised to create a shopping list and refer to the Noche Buena SRP bulletin before visiting their preferred supermarket,” the DTI said.

The Trade Department also reminded consumers to follow health protocols such as wearing of face masks and observing physical distancing.

It reiterated that violations of minimum health protocols can be reported to the DTI and local government units, and can be a ground for the temporary closure of establishments. — RSJ, GMA News