The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said prices of most basic necessities remain steady, with manufacturers absorbing higher costs to protect consumers.
The agency reported on Wednesday, January 21, that 91 percent of monitored basic goods posted no price increases, reflecting broad industry cooperation across multinational and local producers.
Items with stable prices include canned sardines in tomato sauce, instant mami noodles, laundry soap, candles, bread, toilet soap, and batteries. These staples represent 186 of the 205 stock-keeping units listed under the Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities (BNPC) framework, underscoring the breadth of the price hold.
The DTI said it has received no requests from manufacturers to raise suggested retail prices, despite pressures from higher raw material, packaging, logistics, and toll-packing costs.
Companies opted to defer adjustments following the agency’s 2025 call for stronger industry collaboration to cushion households from rising expenses.
Manufacturers keeping prices unchanged span food, personal care, household supplies, and energy-related products. They include Universal Canning, Maunlad Canning, Monde Nissin, Unilever Philippines, P&G Philippines, Colgate-Palmolive Philippines, Energizer, Asia Brewery, NutriAsia, CDO Foodsphere, Virginia Foods, Robinsons, and JG Summit, among many others from local enterprises to global brands.
While the current environment signals stability, the DTI said vigilance remains essential. The agency will continue strict price monitoring nationwide to ensure fair competition, adequate supply, and a balanced approach that protects consumers while supporting business sustainability.
Officials said enforcement teams will coordinate with retailers and local governments, track compliance at the SKU level, and engage manufacturers regularly.
The DTI emphasized transparency, timely reporting, and dialogue to deter profiteering, discourage panic buying, and preserve confidence as cost conditions evolve through the year amid uncertain global markets today now.
