The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has secured commitments from manufacturers to keep prices of 204 basic necessities and prime commodities unchanged through Dec. 31, 2026, as elevated fuel costs continue to threaten household budgets.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said manufacturers had assured the government that prices of products on the agency’s monitoring list would remain stable for the rest of the year, following consultations on mounting fuel and operating expenses.
“They already assured us and committed that there will be no price increase for basic necessities and prime commodities,” Roque said.
The commitment offers consumers some near-term price certainty as businesses contend with higher costs that could otherwise be passed on to retail buyers. However, the assurance is based on manufacturers’ commitments, with the DTI continuing to monitor prices in supermarkets and groceries.
Roque attributed the absence of price adjustments so far to coordination between the government, manufacturers and retailers. The extent to which the pledge can cushion households from broader inflationary pressures will depend on compliance and whether other costs rise further.
The arrangement also leaves a significant holiday-season question unresolved: prices of Noche Buena products, which typically see stronger demand ahead of Christmas.
Roque said the DTI would need to meet manufacturers separately before making any commitment on those items.
“We want to keep all prices stable, but it’s best for us to meet. So I can’t commit yet until I talk to them regarding that specific request,” she said.
The distinction means consumers cannot yet assume that seasonal food products will receive the same price protection as the 204 monitored goods, particularly as holiday shopping approaches.
Roque sought to allay concerns over potential shortages, saying manufacturers had sufficient inventories of basic necessities and prime commodities to meet demand through the holiday season.
“No need to panic, no need to hoard. They have enough supplies of basic necessities and prime commodities,” she said.
The DTI said consumers could consult its official price list through the agency’s website and social media platforms as it continues monitoring retail prices.
