The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has assured consumers that supplies of basic necessities remain stable, with manufacturers maintaining enough inventory to cover about two months despite concerns over rising global oil prices.
Trade Assistant Secretary Regino Mallari Jr. said recent coordination with manufacturers confirmed that warehouses still hold sufficient stocks of essential goods.
“Sa ngayon, sa huli naming pakikipag-ugnayan sa ating mga manufacturers ng basic necessities, sapat po ang kanilang inventory. Ibig sabihin nito, meron pa silang old stocks or old supplies na nasa kanilang mga warehouses,” Mallari explained.
According to the DTI’s latest assessment, manufacturers currently maintain a buffer supply that could last up to two months, helping keep prices stable for the time being.
“Sapat po ang ating supply at hindi pa po magtataas sa ngayon ang (presyo ng) ating necessities at commodities,” he added.
The agency said it continues to monitor compliance with suggested retail prices (SRP) through inspections and surveillance operations. So far, the DTI has inspected 172 establishments across Metro Manila and conducted monitoring activities in all 18 regions nationwide.
Despite the stable supply situation, the DTI warned the public against panic buying, saying bulk purchases could create “artificial” shortages in the market.
Consumers were also encouraged to report suspected overpricing or violations through the agency’s assistance channels so these can be investigated promptly.