THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Pangasinan is closely monitoring the prices and supply of basic goods as many parts of the province grapple with widespread flooding.

Guillermo Avelino Jr. of DTI Pangasinan said both online and on-site price and supply monitoring of Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities (BNPCs) indicate that there are currently no issues with the supply chain, and available stocks in markets are projected to last for up to three weeks.

At the same time, it reminded all retailers that there should be no increase in prices in cities and municipalities that have declared a state of calamity.

The monitoring effort aims to protect consumers during times of crisis, particularly in areas under a state of calamity, which includes Dagupan City, Calasiao, Umingan, Malasiqui, Sta. Barbara, Lingayen, Mangatarem, Binmaley, and Mangaldan as of July 24.

Under the Price Act (Republic Act 7581), the declaration of a state of calamity triggers an automatic 60-day price freeze on essential goods to prevent overpricing and hoarding.

The measure also allows affected residents to apply for calamity loans.

DTI warned businesses to comply with the price freeze and assured the public that violators would be subject to penalties under the law. (Ahikam Pasion)

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