5 Chinese nationals arrested for selling overpriced masks

Five Chinese nationals were arrested by the Manila Police District-Special Mayor's Reaction Team (SMaRT) for selling overpriced face masks amid the threat of the 2019 novel coronavirus acute respiratory disease (2019-nCoV ARD).

According to JP Soriano's Sunday report on "24 Oras Weekend," they were selling surgical masks for P100 to P150 per box, and N95 masks for P100 to P200 per piece.

SMaRT Investigation Chief Police Captain Edward Samonte said they received information regarding the selling of overpriced masks in a mall in Binondo, Manila, which prompted them to conduct a test buy.

"Nag-collect tayo ng mga resibo na allegedly 'yong mga surgical masks ay binebenta nila ng 100 to 150 [pesos] per box. 'Yong N95 naman ay binebenta ng 100 to 200 [pesos] per piece, which is overpriced nga," he said.

Based on the suggested retail price of the Department of Trade and Industry, one box of surgical masks should only be priced at P40 to P50, while the N95 masks should cost P80 to P100 apiece.

The foreign vendors were charged with allegedly violating Republic Act 7581 or the Price Act and the RA 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

Authorities are also trying to find out if the five have work permits.

The Chinese nationals, meanwhile, denied the allegations against them.

Moreover, Samonte reminded sellers to not take advantage of the situation of the 2019-nCoV ARD in the country.

"Paalala namin na ibenta niyo, 'wag niyo samantalahin ang ganitong sitwasyon... dahil may kakaharapin silang pananagutan sa batas," he said.

Meanwhile, more stores in Bambang, a known destination for medical supplies, no longer supplies of surgical masks and N95 masks. — Ma. Angelica Garcia/BM, GMA News