Philippine News Agency
Mask shortage should be temporary: DTI
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has acknowledged a shortage in face mask supply due to a sudden surge in demand following the confirmation of the Philippines' first novel coronavirus (nCoV) case.
Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez stated that the shortage is temporary as the supply of manufactured products can be increased, unlike agricultural goods.
Despite the shortage, Lopez assured that there is no price problem as the DTI has intensified its price monitoring to prevent hoarding and price manipulation.
Consumer advocacy group Laban Konsyumer, Inc. (LKI) proposed identifying importers, inspecting warehouses, and verifying the entry of masks into the market.
LKI also urged the Department of Finance to identify mask types and photos that pass quality tests, and for local government units to strictly implement the suggested retail price for face masks.
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President Rodrigo Duterte announced that the government is actively procuring more face masks to address the scarcity caused by the global demand driven by the novel coronavirus.
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The Philippine National Police (PNP) will assist the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and local government units (LGUs) in monitoring the supply of essential items, including face masks, amidst the novel coronavirus outbreak.
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