DTI: Prices of prime commodities in Agusan Sur remain stable
By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur assured the public that prices of basic commodities in the province remain stable, despite the recent surge in global fuel costs driven by the ongoing Middle East crisis.
Rey Corvera, head of the Consumer Protection Unit of DTI Agusan del Sur, reported that recent monitoring of major business establishments has shown no significant price spikes for essential goods.
“We have not yet noted any significant increase in the prices of basic commodities despite the increase in fuel prices,” Corvera said, aiming to ease the anxieties of local consumers.
While Corvera acknowledged that fuel price hikes typically impact the cost of goods through logistics and transportation, he emphasized that manufacturers cannot raise prices unilaterally. To date, the DTI national office has not received formal requests for price increases from manufacturers.
“They [manufacturers] cannot just change their prices overnight,” Corvera added. He noted that any price adjustment must undergo a “tedious process,” including a formal proposal to the National Price Coordinating Council to determine if the increase is justifiable.
Beyond the DTI’s standard ministerial and supervisory functions over business establishments, Corvera likewise highlighted that the agency remains vigilant in enforcing price caps. He stressed that any violations pertaining to the suggested retail prices (SRPs) will be met with strict administrative sanctions by the Department to prevent profiteering.
To ensure comprehensive coverage across the province, DTI leverages its network of Negosyo (Business) Centers. These centers assist in monitoring price movements within their specific jurisdictions. Currently, 13 out of the 14 local government units (LGUs) in Agusan del Sur have established Negosyo Centers to protect consumer welfare.
In the event that there will be reported overpricing, the DTI follows a structured legal protocol when addressing such public concerns. Corvera outlined the steps the agency takes when a business is suspected of non-compliance:
“Should there be questionable price hikes of basic commodities reported to our office, we will follow through with a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) to the alleged violator to give them due process. This allows the establishment to explain the increase,” elucidated Corvera. “However, if we find their justification to be insufficient or without merit, we will proceed with issuing a Notice of Violation pursuant to Republic Act No. 7581 or the Price Act of the Philippines.”
This enforcement mechanism serves as a safeguard for consumers, ensuring that even as global market pressures mount, local retailers do not take undue advantage of the situation. Corvera urged the public to remain observant and report any suspicious price movements to their nearest Negosyo Center or the DTI provincial office. (NJGD, PIA Caraga with a report from DTI Agusan del Sur)
