Floods hamper DTI’s price monitoring task

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) pushed through Wednesday with price monitoring at wet markets, groceries, supermarkets and other retail outlets amid concerns some enterprises may resort to overpricing while customers worried over weeks of rainy weather scramble for supplies.

Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo said in an interview that many of DTI’s staff members were unable to go to work due to floods but those who were able to report for work have been fielded to check the prices of basic commodities.

At the same time, however, Domingo said the agency wants to check if some enterprises are having difficulty replenishing stocks due to logistical difficulties and are willing to help them get supplies for their customers.

The Philippine Association of Supermarkets, Inc., for its part, said via email that its members are “here for the long haul” and do not raise prices overnight to take advantage of customers already having difficulty.