President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to implement a price freeze on basic and prime commodities until December 31 of this year, Malacañang announced on Monday, October 27.
The directive aims to keep prices stable during the Christmas and New Year holidays, ensuring that consumers are protected from sudden price hikes amid the festive season.
The announcement was made by Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro on the sidelines of the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits held in Malaysia, where Marcos is among the attending heads of state.
“Alinsunod sa kautusan ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. na hindi magkakaroon ng paggalaw sa mga presyo ng mga bilihin bago ang holiday season, inanunsyo ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) na walang price increase sa basic at prime commodities sa bansa hanggang sa matapos ang kasalukuyang taon,” said Castro.
According to the Palace, the President has also instructed the DTI to maintain close coordination with manufacturers to prevent any unnecessary increases in the prices of consumer goods as the holiday season approaches.