DTI Imposes Price Freeze on Basic Necessities in Pampanga and Pangasinan

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has imposed a price freeze on basic necessities in Pampanga and Sta. Barbara in Pangasinan after the areas were placed under a state of calamity due to damage caused by Typhoon Maymay and the southwest monsoon.

According to Republic Act 7581, or the Price Act, prices of basic necessities are automatically frozen when an area is declared under a state of calamity or emergency. The price freeze took effect on August 12 and will remain in force until October 11, unless lifted earlier by the president.

The price controls cover essential food items such as rice, corn, bread, fresh and dried fish, pork, beef, poultry, eggs, milk, vegetables, root crops, coffee, sugar, cooking oil, and salt. Household necessities like laundry soap, detergent, firewood, charcoal, candles, and medicines classified essential by the Department of Health are also included.