The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has assured the public of the continued affordability and adequate supply of basic necessities, after nationwide monitoring activities yielded 99.85% compliance from retailers and grocery chains following the lifting of the 60-day nationwide price freeze.

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque said that the monitoring efforts reflect the President’s objective in declaring a State of National Calamity under Presidential Proclamation No. 1077, which seeks to protect consumers while enabling business rehabilitation and livelihood recovery in calamity-affected areas.

As of January 5, 2026—marking the end of the automatic price control period—the DTI inspected a total of 689 firms across Metro Manila, in addition to operations conducted in various provinces and regions. These initiatives aimed to ensure a smooth transition from price control to a market-regulated environment without undue burden on consumers.

The nationwide monitoring activities regularly checked compliance with the issued Price Freeze Bulletin, covering basic necessities such as bread loaf, pandesal, instant noodles, canned sardines, processed milk, coffee, bottled water, iodized salt, candles, and laundry soap. Select prime commodities, including canned meat, and other Noche Buena items were also closely monitored for both price and supply availability during this period.

From the implementation of the price freeze, the DTI observed that the initially high demand for basic necessities has since stabilized, with supply conditions improving as distribution and logistics normalized after the onslaught of Typhoons Tino and Uwan. Retailers were likewise able to gradually resume regular operations, contributing to market stability.

To deter overpricing, profiteering, and hoarding, the DTI continues to issue Notices of Violation (NOVs) and Show Cause Orders (SCOs) against non-compliant establishments, in accordance with existing laws and regulations. Erring firms may face administrative penalties once due process is completed.

“The lifting of the price freeze does not mean we are lifting our guard. DTI remains on the ground, watching prices and supply closely to ensure that recovery does not come at the expense of Filipino consumers,” Secretary Roque added.

The DTI reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding consumer welfare and ensuring access to essential goods, especially during periods of recovery, while encouraging the public to report violations through official DTI consumer assistance channels. END.

Date of Release: 9 January 2025.