Manufacturers of most price-controlled goods not seeking to raise prices — DTI

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it has not received requests to raise prices from manufacturers whose products account for 91% of the basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPC) list.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DTI said there will be no price increase for canned sardines in tomato sauce, instant mami noodles, laundry soap, candles, bread, toilet soap, and batteries.

“These widely consumed goods account for 91%, or 186 out of 205 stock-keeping units on the BNPC list, as manufacturers did not request any increase in their suggested retail prices,” the DTI said.

It said many manufacturers are holding prices steady despite the higher cost of raw materials, packaging, logistics, and toll-packing.

“The DTI stays committed to protecting consumers while recognizing the economic realities faced by manufacturers. Through regular price monitoring and open dialogue with manufacturers, the agency helps ensure that any price adjustments are fair and properly justified,” Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque  said.

“At the same time, it provides consumers with timely guidance to support informed choices while encouraging businesses to uphold ethical and competitive pricing practices,” she added.

Among the manufacturers that are keeping their prices steady were Unilever Philippines, Inc., Monde Nissin Corp., P&G Philippines, Inc., Green Cross, Inc., Colgate Palmolive Philippines, Inc., JG Summit Holdings, Inc.,  Asia Brewery, Inc., CDO Foodsphere, Inc., Virginia Foods, Inc., Zest-O Corp., Uni-President Corp., and Nutri Asia.

Other such manufacturers include Universal Canning, Maunlad Canning, Uptrade Resource, Chattra Enterprise, Permex, Aquatic Food and Manufacturing, Slord Development, Tosen Foods, Philbaking, Wellmade, Peerless, Vayao Wax, Manila Wax, Singkee, Sevilla Candles, Energizer, LTH Food Industries, Snow Mountain Dairy, Commonwealth Foods, Eccossential Foods, Billie’s Marketing, Philippine Spring Water Resources, and First PGMC. — Justine Irish D. Tabile