DTI Intensifies Rice Price Surveillance to Shield Consumers

MANILA – In a bid to keep rice affordable for Filipino households, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has escalated its nationwide price surveillance. The initiative targets maintaining the cost of regular and well-milled rice between PHP40 and PHP45 per kilogram. DTI Secretary Cristina Roque emphasized the critical role of rice as a staple in Filipino diets and vowed a firm stance against any price manipulation or exploitation. Roque warned that the DTI’s monitoring teams are diligently checking markets throughout the country to enforce compliance with fair trade regulations. Violators face potential fines, business closures, and other sanctions. This intensified effort is conducted in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA) to adhere strictly to the Price Act, as amended, and to thwart any hoarding or price manipulation. The law is designed to protect consumers from unjust price hikes and exploitation during supply shortages or emergencies. Roque reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a secure and inclusive Bagong Pilipinas, ensuring no one is left behind in the nation’s progress.