Manila: Prices of goods in calamity-hit areas remain stable despite the closure of some business establishments, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the entire provinces of Cagayan, Masbate, Oriental Mindoro, Biliran, and Romblon, as well as Pagudpud town in Ilocos Norte, Dagupan City in Pangasinan, Calbayog City and San Vicente town in Samar, and Ibajay town in Aklan are under a 60-day price freeze. These regions were severely affected by Super Typhoon Nando (international name Ragasa) and Severe Tropical Storm Opong (Bualoi) earlier this month.

Citing reports from DTI's Regional Operations Group, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, in a statement, said the supply of goods in these areas remains stable and sufficient. She emphasized, "Protecting every Filipino consumer will always be our top priority. Despite the impact of the storms, we assure the public that prices of essential goods will remain stable and consistently accessible. Our regional and provincial monitors are on the ground daily to safeguard market stability."

The agency also stated it continues to coordinate with distributors and retailers to guarantee a stable supply of BNPCs (basic necessities and prime commodities). It reiterated that violators of the automatic price freeze face penalties of one to 10 years imprisonment and fines ranging from PHP5,000 to PHP1,000,000.

The DTI urged the public to report any consumer-related concerns and queries to [email protected] or call the 1-DTI (1-384) Hotline.