Manufacturers have agreed to extend the nationwide price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) until April 30, following a late Monday meeting with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The move pushes back the original April 16 deadline, providing temporary relief to consumers amid rising costs.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the agreement covers 205 stock keeping units (SKUs) monitored by the agency and sold in groceries and supermarkets.
These items will remain at their current suggested retail prices (SRPs) despite mounting logistics expenses driven by higher oil prices.
Covered goods include widely consumed staples such as canned meat, sardines, coffee, dairy products, instant noodles, bread including Pinoy pandesal, candles, and bottled water.
Roque noted that the list represents a broad basket of essential goods typically purchased by households, accounting for around 70% to 80% of commonly bought brands. These include products from major manufacturers such as Universal Robina Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, Nestlé, Monde Nissin, and Century Pacific Food Inc..
Consumers are advised to check the official BNPC price bulletin available through DTI channels, including its website, social media pages, and posted lists in supermarkets and grocery stores, to verify compliance.
The DTI also assured the public that supply remains stable nationwide, stressing there is no need for panic buying or hoarding. While price variations may occur in remote areas due to logistical constraints, the agency said it continues to monitor market conditions closely.
Authorities will sustain engagement with manufacturers and enforce price stabilization measures, while encouraging consumers to report violations through DTI hotlines and regional offices.
