President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inspected the Agora Market in San Juan City on Wednesday, joining officials from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to monitor food prices and supply.
During the visit, Marcos and officials checked the public weighing scale, the Bantay Presyo bulletin board, and various market sections, including fish, meat, fruits, vegetables, and poultry, to make sure prices are fair and supplies are sufficient.
The inspection comes amid concerns over rising fuel and transport costs due to tensions in the Middle East, which could affect food prices. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said while price adjustments are expected, profiteering and hoarding are unacceptable. He added that rice and other key food supplies remain adequate, and the government is providing support to farmers to prevent sudden price hikes.
The DA and DTI are gathering nationwide price data. If they find unreasonable price increases or abuses, they are ready to enforce price caps on basic necessities and prime commodities.
Meanwhile, Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque met with 21 major manufacturers on March 16. The companies agreed not to raise prices of essential goods for the next 30 to 60 days. Roque praised this commitment, saying it helps keep basic goods affordable for Filipino families.
