The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched intensified intelligence-driven operations to prevent hoarding and profiteering of essential goods ahead of Christmas, after reports of rising meat and vegetable prices nationwide.

Acting PNP chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said in the official statement: “We have been conducting strategic operations against those involved in any activity that takes advantage of our kababayan this Holiday season in coordination with concerned government agencies.”

He added that the PNP has “deployed additional personnel to public markets, supermarkets, and wet markets to deter hoarding, profiteering, and potential panic-buying and other disturbances.”

To ensure consumer protection, the PNP is working closely with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and local government units to monitor price surges, support market inspections, and act against syndicates suspected of artificially inflating prices.

Nartatez concluded with a pledge: “We assure our kababayan of police action and maximum presence to ensure a peaceful and truly merry Christmas celebration this year.”