DTI Imposes 60-Day Price Freeze in Negros Occidental

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Bacolod City has imposed a 60-day price freeze on basic necessities in Negros Occidental. This action was taken due to the state of calamity in the area caused by tropical cyclone 'Crising' and the outbreak of the red-striped soft scale insect in sugarcane farms.

The price freeze, effective until September 22, means that prices of basic necessities will remain at their current levels or be subject to automatic price control. The DTI will closely monitor the price and supply of these goods to ensure compliance with the freeze.

The Provincial Board, under the leadership of Vice Gov. Jose Benito Alonso, declared a state of calamity in Negros Occidental on July 24, a move later approved by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson. According to Republic Act (RA) 7581, prices of basic goods in calamity-stricken areas are automatically frozen at pre-calamity levels.

Basic necessities include essential items like canned fish, milk, coffee, soap, bread, and more. Various government departments are tasked with monitoring the prices of specific goods to ensure they remain stable during this period.

According to the source: Manila Bulletin.