DTI stops price increases on basic goods for two weeks
Published Mar 28, 2026 08:33 pm
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has secured an agreement with the country's largest retailers and food manufacturers to freeze prices of basic necessities until April 16. The move aims to prevent speculative price spikes amid volatile global supply chains and tensions in the Middle East. (Photo by Mark Balmores | MB)
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) secured a commitment from the country’s largest manufacturers and retailers to freeze prices on essential goods through mid-April to insulate households from the inflationary fallout of escalating tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement late Saturday, March 28, the trade department clarified that no price hikes for basic necessities and prime commodities will take effect on April 1, despite mounting logistics and inventory pressures.
Following a meeting with industry leaders, the DTI announced that price stability for these goods is now guaranteed until at least April 16, 2026. The move aims to provide a temporary buffer for Filipino consumers as global supply chains face renewed volatility.
The pact involves a broad coalition of the country’s industrial heavyweights, including food and beverage giants Nestle Philippines, San Miguel Foods, and Universal Robina Corp., as well as personal care leaders Procter & Gamble Philippines and Unilever Philippines. Other participants included Century Pacific Food Inc., Alaska Milk Corp., and Monde Nissin, along with the Canned Sardines Association of the Philippines.
DTI said these companies have pledged to absorb rising operational costs for the next two weeks rather than passing them on to the public.
On the retail side, the freeze is backed by the largest supermarket chains in the archipelago, including SM Markets, Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc., and the Metro Retail Stores Group Inc. The Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association also joined the commitment, ensuring that the price freeze extends from the factory floor to the grocery shelf.
The department said the agency’s initiatives are now focused on enforcement. Under Executive Order No. 110, the DTI is intensifying nationwide monitoring to ensure retailers comply with the agreement. The agency currently oversees 726 variants of essential products. Within that portfolio, 196 stock-keeping units are subject to a Suggested Retail Price, covering everything from canned sardines and instant noodles to laundry soap, bottled water, and bread.
The government’s proactive stance comes as policymakers monitor the impact of regional conflicts on fuel and shipping costs.
By securing a voluntary moratorium from the private sector, the DTI said the government hopes to prevent speculative price spikes. The full list of protected items remains available through the official SRP bulletin on the DTI website and will be displayed across major retail outlets and social media platforms to ensure consumer awareness.