PNP strengthens market monitoring to combat unauthorized price hikes

The Philippine National Police on Thursday vowed to strengthen its presence near markets and grocery stores to prevent unauthorized price increases of basic goods amid oil price shocks. 

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed police units across the country to ensure that no vendor or retailer takes advantage of the crisis by raising the prices of their goods.

“We are coordinating with the DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) and the local government units on how the PNP could effectively assist on this aspect as part of our mandate to protect the interest of the people,” Nartatez said in a press release. 

“Let us not take advantage of the current economic challenge to push for personal gains. Hindi ito makatao, hindi ito maka-Pilipino, at hindi natin papayagan ito (This is not pro-people, pro-Filipino, and we will not allow this),” he added. 

Nartatez's directive was in line with the directive of President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. to ensure that basic goods and commodities remain accessible to the public. 

Nartatez further warned of legal consequences against those who will engage in possible profiteering activities amid the crisis.

“Mahigpit ang ating panawagan sa mga retailers na huwag abusuhin ang sitwasyon at huwag basta-basta magtaas ng presyo. Hahabulin namin kayo kung hindi kayo susunod sa ating batas,'' Nartatez said.

(We strongly urge retailers not to abuse the situation and not to just increase prices of their goods. We will run after those who will not follow the law.)

Meanwhile, the PNP chief also tasked local police units to strengthen coordination with the DTI and local government units to set up help desks where the public can immediately report abusive retailers.

The DTI earlier said that manufacturers of basic necessities and prime commodities have pledged to maintain current prices in the short term.

It also vowed to work closely with industry partners to ensure a steady supply and stable prices to ease the burden on consumers. —VAL, GMA Integrated News