The Department of Trade and Industry-Northern Mindanao (DTI-10) has implemented a price freeze for basic commodities in Cagayan de Oro after the city government declared a state of emergency due to water supply issues that stemmed from the conflict between the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) and bulk water supplier Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Inc. (COBI).

Citing the Republic Act 7581 or the Price Act, DTI-10 said the prices of basic necessities shall be frozen automatically at their prevailing prices for 60 days if an area is under a state of emergency to protect consumers from undue price increases.

“We really need to respond accordingly and that would mean nga ato lang sa i-freeze ang prices for 60 days as per sa atong balaod,” DTI OIC Provincial Director, Jesusa Abear, said.

These commodities include processed canned goods, instant noodles, coffee products, dairy products, soap, bottled water, salt, candles, and bread.

However, prices of chicken, beef, and pork meat are not included as setting the suggested retail price for these goods is not within the scope of DTI.

The price freeze will remain in effect until the declaration of the state of emergency is lifted.

The management of supermarkets and grocery stores are urged to follow the price freeze notice to avoid penalties.

“Naa man tay ginamonitor nga mga establishment if there are cases nga medjo ni taas gyud ug ni move siya wala pa nahuman ang 60 days we will call the attention and we will send a letter of inquiry naa sad tay due process,” Abear added.