Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has extended the price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) until May 10, citing easing fuel costs that continue to help stabilize consumer prices.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the agency is considering a further extension, expressing optimism that declining oil prices will sustain affordability. In a recent meeting with manufacturers and retailers, the DTI secured commitments to hold prices on 205 stock keeping units (SKUs) covered by its monitoring.
The latest move marks the second extension of the price freeze, originally set to expire on April 16 before being pushed to April 30.
Speaking during a market inspection at Robinsons Supermarket, Roque said food prices and supply remain stable, with no increases recorded for BNPCs. Nationwide monitoring, she added, indicates that any price adjustments have been isolated, with most goods staying at or below the suggested retail prices (SRPs) set by the DTI. No cases have been reported of products exceeding the official price list, and there has been no evidence of shrinkflation among monitored items.
Roque emphasized that softer global oil prices have been a key factor in keeping production and transport costs in check, helping businesses maintain current price levels.
Retailers, however, say sustaining stable prices has required close coordination across supply chains. Stanley Co, president and chief executive of Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc., said the company has worked with suppliers to ensure adequate inventory while delaying price adjustments.
He noted a shift in consumer behavior, with shoppers buying more per visit but making fewer trips, likely to manage fuel expenses. Co said the trend reflects pantry stocking rather than panic buying, as households remain cautious but measured in their spending.
