DTI probes 52 Bohol stores, supermarkets for price hikes

PLEA: A sign appealing for housing materials and food is displayed in a damaged structure in Clarin, Bohol, after Typhoon “Odette” ravaged the island province. —LEO UDTOHAN

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has ordered at least 52 stores and supermarkets in Bohol province to explain why they should not be held liable for reportedly not complying with the government’s price freeze order in areas hit by Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai).

The DTI, in a statement, said these stores reportedly increased prices of basic commodities in the aftermath of the typhoon that pummeled the province on Dec. 16. The agency earlier warned traders and businessmen not to take advantage of the situation.

Show cause order

Maria Soledad Balistoy, the DTI Bohol director, said that of the 104 establishments monitored by her office, at least 52 were found selling basic goods beyond the price cap. Their owners were given a week to explain the price increase to the DTI.

“After we issue them the show cause order, we will come back and check if their prices are adjusted,” Balistoy said. “If the prices of goods do not change or unjustified, a notice of violation will be served.”

She said violators may face imprisonment for a period of not less than a year but not more than 10 years, or a fine of not less than P5,000 but not more than P1 million upon the discretion of the court.

The Bohol government earlier declared the province under a state of calamity following Odette’s devastation. A price freeze was subsequently implemented on basic commodities.

Many supermarkets and groceries in the capital Tagbilaran City ran out of food supplies while demand for fuel was high since power supply has yet to be restored in the province.

Negros resolution

In Negros Occidental, the Provincial Price Coordinating Council chaired by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson has passed a resolution seeking a price freeze on prime commodities in the province which has been placed under a state of calamity due to the typhoon.

“The imposition of a price ceiling provides effective and sufficient protection to Negrense consumers against hoarding, profiteering and cartels with respect to the supply, distribution, marketing and predatory pricing of goods during this state of calamity,” according to the resolution, which will be sent to President Duterte.

Adequate supply

Lacson recommended to the President the imposition of a price ceiling on prime commodities, such as roofing sheets, construction materials, solar panels, generator sets and water sold at refilling stations to ensure that supply is adequate, affordable and accessible.

Provincial administrator Rayfrando Diaz asked local businessmen not to take advantage of the misery of others.

“The governor has appealed to the business sector to be humane during this time of calamity and to put public service and concern for others at the forefront other than profit,” Diaz said.