ROXAS City — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Capiz has intensified daily monitoring of basic commodities to keep prices stable and protect consumers from the impact of red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation in the province.DTI is monitoring 22 outlets, including five supermarkets and 17 grocery stores, for compliance with the 60-day price freeze on necessities under the DTI’s jurisdiction.
The price freeze is in effect until October 9 this year unless lifted earlier, following Sangguniang Resolution No. 535 of 2026, declaring the province under a State of Calamity due to a severe RSSI infestation.
The necessities covered include bottled water, bread, candles, canned sardines, coffee, salt, processed milk, instant noodles, and laundry soap.
DTI Capiz information officer Marjorie Tendras said that the measure seeks to protect Capisnons from sudden price shocks and help ensure continued access to essential goods while the province addresses the effects of the infestation.
“The 60-day price freeze is a decisive measure to protect Capiznons from sudden price shocks while our agricultural sector recovers from the severe RSSI infestation,” Tendras noted.
She added that the agency will sustain daily monitoring and coordinate with stakeholders to ensure fair access, stable prices, and market transparency for households across the province.
The agency also urged consumers and retailers to cooperate and to report any irregularities so that the agency can act swiftly to safeguard every Capisnon family’s basic needs. (PIA Capiz)
