Duterte orders probe on Odette profiteering

President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to investigate profiteering and overpricing in areas devastated by Typhoon Odette.

The President also granted the DTI the authority to impose price caps on essential goods, including medicines and construction materials, to curb exploitation.

Duterte warned that business owners involved in the overpricing of basic goods and construction supplies in typhoon-hit areas may be arrested by the Philippine National Police.

DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez confirmed that the agency has already issued letters of inquiry to establishments suspected of overpricing.

Lopez clarified that price controls were implemented upon the declaration of a state of calamity, meaning prices should remain at their pre-typhoon levels.

He also noted that arrests have been made, particularly in Bohol and Cebu.