The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has secured a renewed commitment from major manufacturers to keep prices of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) unchanged until April 30, reinforcing efforts to stabilize household spending and support business predictability amid global cost pressures.
The agreement, reached following an April 6 meeting convened by Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, covers a wide range of staple goods with suggested retail prices (SRPs), including canned sardines, processed milk, bread, coffee, locally manufactured instant noodles, bottled water, laundry soap, candles, salt, canned meat, condiments, and toilet soap.
Roque said the continued industry cooperation underscores a shared commitment to price stability and consumer protection despite volatility in fuel and supply chains.
“We thank our manufacturers for their continued cooperation with the government. This constant dialogue allows us to respond proactively, keep prices stable, and ensure that Filipino consumers remain informed and protected,” she said.
She also assured the public that supply remains sufficient. “There is no need for panic buying, as supply remains adequate. The DTI continues to monitor markets daily to ensure that basic goods are available and prices remain affordable,” Roque added.
As part of its broader UPLIFT framework, the DTI is intensifying nationwide monitoring, adopting a whole-of-government approach to cushion Filipino families from inflationary pressures. While no enforcement actions have been necessary so far, the agency emphasized that compliance mechanisms are in place. Businesses found selling above SRP levels may face Letters of Inquiry or Notices of Violation, with strict penalties for practices such as hoarding and profiteering.
Participating companies include Nestlé Philippines, Inc., Monde Nissin Corporation, Universal Robina Corporation, Century Pacific Food, Inc., Procter & Gamble Philippines, San Miguel Foods, Inc., and Alaska Milk Corporation, among others.
To promote transparency and guide consumers, the DTI said the official SRP bulletin is widely available through in-store postings in supermarkets and groceries nationwide, as well as online via its official website and social media channels.
With sustained coordination between government and industry, the DTI said it remains focused on maintaining reasonable prices, ensuring adequate supply, and protecting both consumers and enterprises under the administration’s economic agenda.