DTI, DA inspect prices of basic goods at Manila’s Quinta Market

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday conducted an on-the-spot price inspection at Quinta Market to check the prices of basic commodities.

In Sandra Aguinaldo's Balitanghali report on Monday, Trade Secretary Christina Aldeguer-Roque led the inspection, joined by representatives from the Manila local government. They visited various stalls selling vegetables, pork, chicken, fish, and rice to verify that prices are aligned with government standards.

At Quinta Market, whole chicken was priced at around P200 per kilogram, while drumsticks and chicken breast were sold at about P210 per kilogram. Pork prices ranged from P390 per kilogram for regular cuts to P430 for liyempo (pork belly).

The Trade Secretary noted that prices were generally fair, although pork prices have shown a slight increase. This was attributed to recent adverse weather conditions and rising transportation costs, which also affected vegetable prices.

The inspection team was pleased to find rice being sold at P35 per kilo at some stalls, although many vendors priced rice at P40 or higher per kilogram.

Following the market inspection, Roque also checked prices of milk, bottled water, coffee, and bread at a nearby mall to get a broader perspective on retail prices.

She reported no violations during the inspection but emphasized that DTI and DA will continue monitoring prices closely. This aligns with President’s directive to maintain low prices on essential goods to ease the burden on consumers.

Currently, the agencies see no supply issues that might threaten price stability and that they expect that prices will remain low compared to previous periods.

This latest inspection at Quinta Market reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to protect consumers and keep essential goods accessible amid challenging economic conditions. — Sherylin Untalan/BM, GMA Integrated News