Shoppers can breathe a little easier this month as manufacturers have agreed to keep prices of basic necessities and everyday commodities steady until April 30, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced.
The move comes amid ongoing global uncertainties, particularly the impact of the Middle East conflict on fuel and supply costs. Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the extension adds two weeks to the earlier April 16 deadline, reflecting the private sector’s effort to ease the burden on Filipino consumers.
“After meeting with manufacturers earlier this week, they agreed to maintain no price increase until April 30,” Roque said during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay. “This is part of their contribution to help consumers amid rising global challenges.”
She also noted that existing stocks in supermarkets and grocery stores have helped manufacturers keep prices steady for the moment.
Which Products Are Covered
The voluntary price hold applies to 205 items on the DTI’s official stockkeeping unit list. Essential household products such as canned goods, bread, bottled water, candles, and laundry detergent are included.
Roque encouraged consumers to familiarize themselves with the list so they know which items are protected by the no-increase agreement.
“It’s important for consumers to track this list so they’ll know which products are covered,” she said.
Government Guidance, Not a Mandatory Freeze
While prices are stable for now, manufacturers have not committed to maintaining them beyond April 30. The DTI clarified that no formal price freeze is in effect, even after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national energy emergency.
Under Republic Act No. 7581, automatic price controls only apply during emergencies or states of calamity. Instead of a mandatory freeze, the government is implementing targeted interventions to prevent sudden price spikes and protect consumers from inflationary pressures.
