The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) announced that prices for basic necessities and prime commodities will remain frozen until May 10.
This initiative is part of a strategic buffer designed to protect Filipino consumers from the volatility of global fuel prices and supply chain disruptions.
During a recent Senate PROTECT Committee hearing, DEPDev Undersecretary Joseph Capuno confirmed that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has secured this price stability agreement from various stakeholders.
According to Capuno, the freeze is a core component of the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) Program.
“DTI reported a no price increase commitment for basic necessities and prime commodities until May 10, 2026,” Capuno stated.
To ensure compliance, the government is intensifying its surveillance of food and medicine costs. This monitoring aims to prevent “unwarranted increases” as the market navigates international supply shocks.
Beyond simple price caps, the administration is tackling the root causes of inflation by streamlining logistics. These parallel efforts include providing toll rebates, relieving port fees, and enhancing overall supply chain efficiency.
Regarding the distribution of these subsidies and support measures, Capuno emphasized that the government is moving quickly to reach those in need.
“Agencies will accelerate delivery where beneficiaries, payment channels, routes, stations, and rollout arrangements are already validated,” he said.
The UPLIFT program also places a heavy emphasis on food security. The government intends to expand the reach of the ₱20-per-kilo rice program to ensure that even amid global energy crises, the most vulnerable sectors maintain access to affordable staples.
By integrating these various interventions, the government aims to sustain national economic stability through a “whole-of-government” strategy.