DTI enforces 60-day price freeze in Ibajay, Aklan

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has imposed a 60-day price freeze on basic necessities in the municipality of Ibajay, Aklan, following its declaration under a state of calamity due to Typhoon Opong.

The price freeze took effect on September 26 and will remain in force until November 25, unless lifted earlier by the President.

Under Republic Act 7581, or the Price Act, the prices of basic goods in areas placed under a state of calamity are automatically frozen at their prevailing levels prior to the disaster.

Republic Act 10623, which amended provisions of the Price Act, further strengthened the mandate of government agencies to protect consumers.

The DTI reminded business establishments in Ibajay to strictly comply with the price freeze order.

Consumers were likewise encouraged to report violators—such as retailers, distributors, or manufacturers selling basic goods above prevailing prices—via the One-DTI (1-384) Hotline or through email at ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph and ReportToSec@dti.gov.ph.

The DTI is conducting regular price monitoring of basic necessities, including canned fish and other marine products, processed milk, coffee, detergent or laundry soap, candles, bread, salt, bottled water, and locally manufactured instant noodles.

The Sangguniang Bayan of Ibajay earlier passed Resolution No. 2025-061, declaring the municipality under a state of calamity.

The resolution cited the widespread destruction caused by Typhoon Opong, which directly impacted 35 barangays and damaged public infrastructure, utilities, crops, livestock, fisheries, homes, and private properties.

It also authorized the Municipal Mayor to utilize the local Calamity Fund for relief, rehabilitation, and recovery operations, subject to accounting and auditing regulations.