Good news for Filipino households: prices on basic necessities and prime commodities will stay frozen until May 10, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque confirmed, extending the voluntary commitment for the third time since late March.
The latest pushback from the original April 16 deadline comes after weekly talks between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and major manufacturers. “We want to inform the public that no price increase will be up to May 10 already,” Roque said during a price monitoring visit at a Muntinlupa supermarket on Friday. She credited falling fuel prices and ample food supplies for securing the extension, with no shortages reported as of today.
Voluntary, Not Mandatory
This isn’t a formal government price freeze; it’s a goodwill agreement under Republic Act No. 7581 (Price Act), which only mandates controls during emergencies. The DTI monitors 726 essential items, including 196 with suggested retail prices like canned sardines, instant noodles, rice, bread, cooking oil, fresh fish, eggs, vegetables, laundry soap, and salt.
What Counts as ‘Basic Necessities’?
To help shoppers spot protected items:
- Basic necessities: Rice, corn, bread, fresh meat/fish, eggs, milk, vegetables, cooking oil, and essential medicines.
- Prime commodities: Fresh fruits, flour, processed meats, dairy, noodles, onions, garlic, school supplies, and construction materials.
Repeated extensions highlight the economy’s delicate balance, strained by global tensions like the Middle East conflict. Roque plans more talks next week to decide post-May 10 plans. DTI urges reporting any hikes via their hotline (1-DTI).
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