The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has implemented a nationwide price freeze on basic goods for 60 days, following President Ferdinand “Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a state of calamity.

“To protect consumers during these challenging times, the DTI has implemented a nationwide price freeze on basic necessities, effective immediately, in compliance with the declaration of a state of national calamity,” DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said in a statement released Saturday, November 8.

According to Roque, the agency’s regional and provincial monitoring teams are now on heightened alert and actively on the ground, working round the clock to strictly enforce the price freeze. Moreover, she stated that this would prevent hoarding and profiteering, and “ensure the stable and sufficient supply of essential goods.”

The statement comes after numerous families and communities were significantly affected by the impact of Typhoon Tino.

“At the same time, we are now mobilizing extensive preparations for the anticipated onslaught of Typhoon Uwan on Luzon. We urge all residents in the path of the approaching storm to heed the warnings of local authorities and take all necessary preemptive measures to ensure safety,” Roque wrote.

As chair of the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC), the DTI announced on Friday evening that it will immediately implement the automatic price freeze on all necessities.

The price freeze will remain in force for 60 days, or until President Marcos lifts the order.

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