MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday repeated his warning against hoarders taking advantage of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
“I will repeat. This is not the time to make profit. This is not the time to take advantage of others,” Duterte said in his televised address.
“The government is also ensuring the unhampered flow of cargo and their workers to maintain the continuous and steady supply of food, goods, and other essential supplies and items,” he added. “A price freeze on commodities is already in effect and measures to curtail hoarding and profiteering are also in place.”
Malacañang had earlier warned that those who would hoard goods and take advantage of COVID-19 fears would be arrested.
READ: Stop hoarding key commodities or face arrest, Palace warns
As of Monday, health officials have so far confirmed 1,546 cases of COVID-19 in the country. Of the number, 78 have already died while 42 have already recovered.
READ: COVID-19 cases surge to 1,546 with no new recoveries
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