In a decisive move to protect Filipino shoppers, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has significantly increased its visibility and operations in public markets across the country. This action comes as a direct response to growing concerns over escalating prices of essential goods, particularly meat and vegetables, during the crucial weeks before the Christmas holiday.
Strategic Police Deployment in Key Shopping Areas
The PNP has strategically positioned its officers in public markets, supermarkets, and traditional wet markets. The primary goal of this deployment is to act as a strong deterrent against three major issues: hoarding of goods, illegal profiteering, and any potential panic-buying that could arise from price speculation. The initiative, which was active as seen at the Paco Public Market in Manila on December 2, 2025, aims to ensure a stable and fair marketplace for all consumers during the busiest shopping season of the year.
Coordinated Government Effort to Stabilize Prices
Acting PNP chief, Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., emphasized that these are not random patrols but part of a calculated strategy. "We have been conducting strategic operations against those involved in any activity that takes advantage of our citizens this holiday season in coordination with concerned government agencies," Nartatez stated in a release last Sunday.
He further detailed that the police force is working hand-in-hand with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and various Local Government Units (LGUs). This collaboration focuses on closely monitoring price movements, supporting inspection activities, and implementing measures to stop illegal profiteering practices before they can affect the public.
Intelligence-Driven Operations Against Syndicates
Beyond visible patrols, the PNP is also conducting behind-the-scenes, intelligence-driven operations. These efforts are specifically designed to identify and target organized hoarders and syndicates accused of artificially inflating the prices of basic commodities. This crackdown follows the explicit directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to safeguard consumer welfare while ensuring an uninterrupted supply of essential goods. The multi-agency approach signifies a serious commitment from the national government to uphold market integrity and shield Filipinos from exploitative practices during a time meant for celebration.
The heightened police presence serves as both a practical measure and a psychological reassurance to the public, signaling that authorities are actively working to maintain order and affordability in the market as the Christmas rush reaches its peak.
