Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual said Wednesday the agency activated its monitoring team to check if supermarkets and groceries are following the price freeze in areas declared under a state of calamity due to Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon.

Under the Price Act, necessities are automatically put under a price freeze at their prevailing prices for not more than 60 days.

“We have activated our monitoring teams to strictly enforce the price freeze,” Pascual said in a statement.

“The price freeze, effective immediately, aims to protect consumers from unjust price increases during this time of crisis.”

The Metro Manila Council (MMC) on Wednesday placed the entire National Capital Region (NCR) under a state of calamity due to widespread flooding.

Among the necessities being monitored by the DTI are bread, canned fish and other marine products, potable water in bottles and containers, processed milk, locally manufactured instant noodles, coffee, salt, laundry soap, detergent, and candles.

“We are committed to ensuring that basic goods remain affordable and accessible to all affected residents,” Pascual said.

He added that those found violating the law, including those found profiteering and hoarding during a state of calamity, would face penalties, including imprisonment.

“We urge all establishments to comply with the price freeze and prioritize the well-being of our fellow citizens during this difficult time,” Pascual said.

Consumers are also urged to report any overpricing and violations to the department’s Consumer Care Hotline 1-DTI (384) or via e-mail at consumercare@dti.gov.ph. (PNA)