A lawmaker has raised concern over reports of retailers ignoring the government-imposed price freeze on basic goods, and urged authorities to intensify enforcement efforts to protect consumers from unjustified price hikes.
The price freeze, implemented by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and in effect until May 10, aims to stabilize the cost of essential commodities amid global uncertainties, including tensions in the Middle East.
Senator Erwin Tulfo warned that some sellers have taken advantage of weak monitoring, particularly in smaller neighborhood markets, where oversight is perceived to be less strict.
According to the lawmaker, this has allowed certain retailers to increase prices despite the existing freeze, placing additional strain on Filipino households already grappling with rising living costs.
He noted that ordinary consumers are the most affected, as many depend on nearby sari-sari stores and small groceries for their daily needs.
“Filipino consumers are yet again left with no choice but to adjust the family budget because these markets are the most accessible places for them to buy goods for daily sustenance,” he said.
The lawmaker also urged the DTI to go beyond paper-based monitoring and conduct more on-the-ground inspections to ensure compliance across all areas.
“Heed the call of our kababayans. A simple check of social media sentiments should give you an idea that there are various areas not applying the price freeze. What stops you from inspecting these areas personally?” he added.
He stressed that strict enforcement of price controls is crucial, especially as the government rolls out a broader response to cushion the impact of external economic pressures.
“We can provide aid, but if the prices are being manipulated, this becomes nonsense,” he said.
Under existing regulations, violators of the price freeze may face administrative sanctions, fines, or even imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense.