The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said a nationwide 60-day price freeze on basic goods is now in effect following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a state of national calamity.

The DTI, as chair of the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC), said the price freeze was immediately implemented after the state of national calamity issuance.

Marcos earlier approved the declaration on Thursday, Nov. 6, due to the devastation caused by Typhoon “Tino” and the potential impact of anticipated Super Typhoon “Uwan.”

The DTI said the price freeze will remain in force for 60 days, or until lifted by the President.

“The DTI has coordinated with all key NPCC implementing agencies to protect consumers during this critical period,” it said.

Other members of the NPCC include the departments of Agriculture (DA), of Energy (DOE), of Health (DOH), of Transportation (DOTr), of Justice (DOJ), of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev).

The new prize freeze order follows last month’s directive to maintain current prices of basic goods and prime commodities until the end of the year.

Marcos earlier asked the DTI to secure the backing of manufacturers to help retain the current suggested retail price (SRP) scheme.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the declaration of a state of national calamity has only formalized this initial order.

“Definitely there will be no increases now with the issuance,” said Roque in a radio interview.

Roque said her agency is working round-the-clock with manufacturers, retailers, and distributors to ensure sufficient and steady stock of basic necessities and prime commodities.

Products covered by price freeze include basic necessities such as canned sardines, powdered milk, bread, salt, detergent soap, bottled water, and candles.

Also included are prime commodities such as luncheon meat, corned beef, condiments, toilet soap, and batteries.

The DTI has since placed its regional and provincial offices on heightened alert and mobilized them to enforce compliance with the price freeze and maintain adequate supply nationwide.

Business establishments violating the price freeze will face severe penalties, including imprisonment for one to 10 years and fines ranging from ₱5,000 to ₱1 million.