Cebu LGUs Commit to Reviving Price Councils to Tackle Inflation
In a significant move to address rising consumer costs, more than 25 out of 51 local government units (LGUs) in Cebu Province have pledged to reactivate their Local Price Coordinating Councils (LPCCs). This initiative aims to curb unreasonable price increases for essential goods and commodities.
High-Level Meeting Drives Action
The commitment was made during a meeting convened by Governor Pam Baricuatro with city and municipal mayors at the Capitol on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Officials from key national agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Energy (DOE), also attended the gathering.
Governor Baricuatro emphasized that restoring the operation of these councils will strengthen price monitoring efforts. This comes amid growing concerns that global events, particularly tensions in the Middle East, could lead to fluctuations in the prices of basic goods and other products such as oil.
Current Status and Future Plans
According to DTI data, only 11 LGUs in Cebu currently have active LPCCs. Mayor Cesar Suan, president of the Cebu chapter of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP), stated that the 44 members of LMP-Cebu will prioritize the revival of these councils.
Atty. Airene Abapo, chief of consumer protection at DTI Cebu, welcomed the pledge but cautioned that it must be accompanied by stricter monitoring of public markets and large stores to ensure effectiveness.
This coordinated effort highlights a proactive approach by local authorities to safeguard consumer interests and stabilize the local economy in the face of external pressures.
