Manila LGU imposes price freeze on basic goods amid state of calamity

The Manila city government enforced a 60-day price freeze on basic goods after declaring a state of calamity amid the heavy rains and floods.

The order took effect on July 23 and prohibits price hikes on essential products such as rice, meat, water, and medicines.

“Basic necessities are goods vital to the needs of consumers for their sustenance and existence in times like disaster, calamity, and war such as, but not limited to, rice, corn, root crops, bread; fresh, dried or canned fish and other marine products; fresh pork, beef, and poultry meat; fresh eggs; potable water in bottles and containers; fresh and processed milk; fresh vegetables and fruits; locally manufactured, instant noodles; and coffee; sugar; cooking oil; salt; laundry soap and detergents; firewood; charcoal; household liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene; candles; drugs classified as essential by the Department of Health,” according to a document posted by the Office of the City Administrator.

Further, the policy also prohibits hoarding and profiteering.

“Under the same law, price manipulations like hoarding, profiteering, or offering basic and prime commodities at grossly excessive prices, or engaging in a cartel to artificially increase prices are prohibited and considered illegal,” it added.

Manila was placed under a state of calamity due to the effects of the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat, and the series of storms that hit Luzon.

The Department of Health earlier announced a price freeze on 148 medicines in areas under state of calamity. — BAP, GMA Integrated News