Some vendors were flagged by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) during its inspection at the Obrero Public Market at Blum Sta. Cruz, Manila.

DA Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra led the Special Joint Price and Supply Monitoring. During the inspection, RH Boy Gonzales reported that the DA flagged some vendors, particularly those selling pork, after noticing the price differences.

Based on the monitoring conducted, Guevarra found that the price of pork in the said market was being sold for ₱440 per kilo, but it immediately dropped to ₱360 to ₱380 once the agency arrived for the inspection.

The DA will coordinate with police personnel to strictly monitor the market. Moreover, Guevarra said they will coordinate with the market administrator for regular updates on the price of goods.

Gonzales reported that the owner of the pork meat shop apologized and admitted they made a mistake in posting the price list. Moreover, the owner reasoned that the price of meat usually increases during the holiday season.