PNP alerts police to monitor price hikes post-Odette

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos has alerted police units nationwide to monitor for traders exploiting the situation by increasing prices.

An automatic price freeze is in effect in areas declared under a state of calamity due to Typhoon Odette, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Senate President Vicente Sotto III called on Malacañang to declare a price freeze on basic necessities in areas hit by Odette.

He expressed concern that unscrupulous traders might raise prices of basic commodities like rice and potable water amid the crisis.

Republic Act 7581, or the Price Act, mandates automatic price freezes in areas declared as disaster zones or under a state of calamity.

Local governments in Camarines Norte, Cebu, Bohol, and Negros Occidental have already declared a state of calamity.

Typhoon Odette is considered the fiercest typhoon to hit the country this year, with latest data from the NDRRMC showing 156 dead, 37 missing, and 275 injured.

The most affected areas were Mimaropa, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Western Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, and some parts of Bangsamoro.