Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque has provided firm assurance to Filipino consumers that prices of basic necessities and prime commodities will remain frozen for the next 60 days. This measure comes as a direct result of the nationwide State of Calamity declared by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., triggering an automatic price control mechanism on essential goods.
On-Site Verification in Cebu
Secretary Roque personally led monitoring and inspection efforts at a mall in Mabolo, Cebu City, on November 13, 2025. During this visit, she verified that supermarket prices for basic goods were not only within prescribed government levels but were also generally lower than the official Suggested Retail Prices (SRPs) set by the DTI.
"When it comes to basic necessities and prime commodities, prices are actually lower than those prescribed by the DTI," Roque stated, confirming the positive findings from her inspection. "So far, prices are good and within the acceptable range."
Holiday Season Price Stability
The DTI chief also provided updates on noche buena products, offering relief to families preparing for Christmas celebrations. She confirmed that most holiday items have maintained their prices from the previous year.
"The list of noche buena prices is already posted on the DTI website, as well as in groceries and supermarkets," Roque said. "Most of the noche buena products have no price increase from last year."
While acknowledging that a few brands implemented minimal adjustments, she emphasized these changes remain within allowable limits. "For example, most hams have maintained their prices, and only a few brands went up slightly—around six percent."
Consumer Protection and Vigilance
Secretary Roque underscored the DTI's commitment to nationwide price monitoring to ensure full compliance with the 60-day price freeze. "The prices are set by the DTI following the instruction of President Marcos that there should be no price increase for basic necessities and prime commodities during this period," she explained.
The department encourages public participation in maintaining fair pricing. Roque urged consumers to regularly check the DTI website for official price lists and to report any instances of overpricing they encounter.
"Our goal is to protect Filipino consumers and make sure that essential goods remain affordable and accessible to everyone," she emphasized, particularly as families prepare for the holiday season when demand typically increases.
