The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) assured the public that the country has sufficient supplies of bottled water and there is no need to hoard amid concerns over the possible effects of a strong El Niño from October to December.
Trade officials affirmed that production capacity remains strong across major manufacturers, ensuring that inventory levels will meet consumer demand throughout the predicted dry spell. The agency urged consumers to buy only what they need to avoid artificial shortages and unnecessary price spikes in retail markets.
“The government is working closely with manufacturers to monitor stock levels continuously,” the DTI said.
The trade agency also said that field monitoring teams are actively inspecting commercial establishments to ensure compliance with fair trade laws and prevent unfair sales practices during the dry period.