DTI implements price freeze in provinces hit by typhoons

A price freeze has been implemented by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in several provinces and municipalities severely affected by supertyphoon Nando and severe tropical storm Opong.

The affected areas include the provinces of Cagayan, Masbate, Oriental Mindoro, Biliran, and Romblon, as well as specific municipalities in Ilocos Norte, Pangasinan, Samar, and Aklan.

The DTI assures the public that prices of prime commodities and basic necessities are stable in these storm-hit regions.

Most markets and supermarkets in affected areas, particularly in Masbate, are operational despite some business closures, with consumer activity returning to normal.

Violators of the automatic price freeze face penalties of one to ten years imprisonment and fines ranging from P5,000 to P1,000,000.

The DTI is actively collaborating with distributors and retailers to guarantee a consistent supply of essential goods in the affected areas.