PNP to help enforce 60-day price freeze of basic goods in Davao Oriental
A PRICE freeze was imposed in Davao Oriental following last week's earthquakes.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has committed full assistance in the implementation of the 60-day price freeze on basic goods in Davao Oriental following the twin earthquakes that struck the province last week.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said they are now coordinating with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and local government units to ensure that it will be implemented properly.
“This is in line with the President’s order to ensure that all government agencies are mobilized in protecting the welfare of citizens affected by natural disasters, particularly by maintaining order, stabilizing supply chains, and preventing exploitation during times of crisis,” said Nartatez.
He said police presence and coordination are also intended to help maintain peace and order in affected areas.
The DTI earlier announced that the automatic price freeze will be in effect from Oct. 13 to Dec. 12. to ensure that prices of basic necessities remain stable and affordable for consumers during the recovery period.
Nartatez assured that there are sufficient police personnel and assets deployed to support ongoing relief and rehabilitation operations in coordination with local disaster response units.
Thousands of policemen were deployed in various areas affected by the two strong tremors that hit Davao Oriental and nearby areas to assist in disaster response and relief and rehabilitation operations.
Separate police teams were also in the province of Cebu which was earlier hit by magnitude 6/9 quake.
Nartatez earlier lauded police forces in the two provinces after no criminal incidents were reported since the earthquake.