Price freeze ordered as Mindoro town declares state of calamity

White Beach in Puerto Galera town is among the top destinations in Oriental Mindoro province. —PUERTO GALERA LGU

CALAPAN CITY, ORIENTAL MINDORO, Philippines — Prices of basic necessities in Puerto Galera town, Oriental Mindoro have been automatically frozen following the declaration of a state of calamity due to a prevailing water supply shortage, authorities announced.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Mimaropa said the price freeze took effect after the Puerto Galera Sangguniang Bayan approved Resolution No. 06-198-2026 declaring a state of calamity in the municipality.

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Under Section 6 of Republic Act No. 7581, or the Price Act, as amended, prices of basic necessities are automatically frozen at their prevailing levels during the existence of a calamity, emergency, or similar condition.

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The freeze remains effective for the duration of the condition that led to the declaration, but shall not exceed 60 days.

READ: Puerto Galera under state of calamity over severe water shortage

Among the basic necessities covered by the price freeze under DTI jurisdiction are canned fish and other marine products, processed milk such as evaporated, condensed and powdered milk, coffee, laundry and detergent soap, candles, bread including tasty bread and pandesal (yeast bread roll), iodized salt, instant noodles, and bottled water.

READ: Deepening water crisis

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DTI-Mimaropa said it would intensify price and supply monitoring in Puerto Galera to ensure compliance with the law and protect consumers from profiteering and unreasonable price increases amid the water shortage.

The agency warned that violators may face imprisonment ranging from one to 10 years, a fine of P5,000 to P1 million, or both, at the discretion of the court, in addition to applicable administrative penalties.

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Authorities urged consumers and business establishments to remain vigilant and comply with the price freeze regulations while the municipality addresses the ongoing water supply crisis. /cb

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