School supply prices stay stable in Western Visayas

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Prices of school supplies in Western Visayas remain generally stable ahead of the opening of School Year 2026–2027, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

Following its monitoring of 41 major retail outlets across the region, DTI-Western Visayas said prices and supply levels of school supplies remain aligned with the agency’s suggested retail price guide.

“Overall, the findings reflect steady market conditions across monitored areas, ensuring continued availability of school supplies for consumers,” the agency said.

The monitored establishments included 13 in Aklan, 12 in Iloilo, seven in Capiz, five in Antique, and four in Guimaras.

DTI said adequate inventories in retail markets have helped protect parents and students from erratic price increases during the back-to-school season.

To help ease education-related expenses, DTI-Western Visayas expanded its “Balik-Eskwela” Diskwento Caravan through localized initiatives across the region.

In Antique, participating retailers offered discounts ranging from 5% to 50%, complemented by a two-day community caravan in the island municipality of Caluya.

In Iloilo, 11 exhibitors joined a discount caravan at the Lambunao Town Plaza, bringing school supplies and bundled products closer to consumers.

Capiz implemented its back-to-school campaign under the government’s UPLIFT Program, with retailers such as SM Stationery and Mr. D.I.Y. participating in discount activities.

Meanwhile, Aklan mobilized 10 supermarkets and bookstores for multiday shopping events, while Bacolod City partnered with Lopue’s branches to offer discounted school-related products.

In Guimaras, a 15-establishment campaign extended discounts beyond school supplies to include clothing, hardware, and household appliances.

DTI-Western Visayas also encouraged consumers to make informed purchasing decisions by taking inventory of reusable school items at home, setting spending limits, and comparing prices before making purchases.

The agency said its monitoring and discount programs aim to safeguard consumers’ purchasing power during the peak back-to-school season.

The Department of Education earlier announced that classes for School Year 2026–2027 are scheduled to open in June, prompting increased demand for school supplies and related materials across the country.