DTI says basic goods prices stable for 30 days

MANILA — Manufacturers of basic necessities and prime commodities have pledged to keep current prices unchanged for the next 30 days, with some saying they can hold the line for as long as 60 days despite uncertainty tied to the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The assurance came after a March 16, 2026 meeting called by Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque and attended by 21 manufacturers covering canned sardines, bread, bottled water, instant noodles, coffee, canned meat, toilet soap, and candles.

For the next 30 days, no price increases are expected for canned sardines under Unipak, 555, Ligo, Lucky 7, Fresca, Morjon, Golden Town, and Mega; bread products Pinoy Tasty and Pinoy Pandesal; bottled water brands Wilkins and Nature’s Spring; toilet and laundry soaps Safeguard Pure White, Tide Bar Original Scent, and Green Cross Pure White; condiments Datu Puti soy sauce and vinegar, and Lorins’ Patis; processed canned meat from CDO; and candles from Liwanag.

The DTI said brands including Lucky Me, Ho-Mi, Argentina, Lucky 7, 555, Swift Premium, Wow!, and Shanghai committed to keep their current prices for 60 days.

Manufacturers behind Kopiko, Nescafe, San Mig coffee 3-in-1, and Export candle also pledged to maintain current prices for the time being, with no immediate increase announced.

The price-stability pledge comes after the DTI earlier said it was in talks with manufacturers as oil-market volatility linked to the Middle East crisis threatened to raise production and transport costs.

The latest DTI Suggested Retail Price Bulletin, issued on Feb. 1, 2025, covered 191 shelf-keeping units, which remain part of the government’s benchmark in monitoring basic necessities and prime commodities.

Under Republic Act No. 7581, or the Price Act, the government is mandated to help ensure the availability of basic necessities and prime commodities at reasonable prices, giving the DTI a central role in monitoring goods such as bread, coffee, noodles, soap, candles, condiments, and other daily essentials.

“We recognize the financial strain faced by consumers while also acknowledging the cost pressures confronting manufacturers. Our priority remains to ensure fair and reasonable pricing. We thank our manufacturing partners for their commitment and shared concern for Filipino consumers,” Secretary Cristina A. Roque said.

The DTI said it will continue working with industry to keep supply steady and prices stable as it monitors the effect of external shocks on household essentials.