DTI monitors supply, prices of basic necessities

SAN JOSE, Antique – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is monitoring prices and supplies of basic necessities in the major retailers here.

Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Engr. Lynna Joy Cardinal of DTI Antique said adequate supply of goods is noted with additional deliveries already booked and are coming within the week.

Antiqueño consumers are advised not to engage in panic buying because of the availability and steady delivery of basic necessities.

“Panic buying contributes to artificial shortage,” she said.

The store owners assured that supply of basic goods is available and deliveries of supplies are coming in as scheduled.

Basic necessities include canned fish, processed milk, coffee, laundry soap, detergent, candles, loaf bread, salt, potable water in bottles and containers, and noodles, among others.

With the implementation of Executive Order No. 035 issued by Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao on 16 March 2020 imposing travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), duly-licensed entrepreneurs, suppliers and sellers of food items, medicines and other basic necessities, as well as hardware and construction materials are provided with exemption, when making deliveries of their products and returning to their places of business.

In addition, price freeze is also implemented due to Proclamation No. 922 that puts the country under the State of Public Health Emergency due to COVID-19. (PIA-Antique)