Favila directed yesterday all DTI offices to check prices in all markets and ensure that supplies of basic and prime commodities are stable.
"Let us treat consumers this season by closely watching Noche Buena products that are very much in demand during parties and home gatherings," Favila said.
"Our guard should even heighten during the Christmas season when there is great demand for food products. Even though we have assurances from manufacturers and supermarket associations that prices of basic commodities will not go up, let us not be complacent in protecting the rights of consumers," Favila said.
He stressed that "all the more, we should be alert against unscrupulous businessmen in the market who prey on hapless consumers."
Favila ordered DTI Directors whose provinces would be affected by typhoon Reming to immediately mobilize their teams and closely coordinate with the Local Price Coordinating Councils in their respective areas as a preemptive measure against profiteers in the market.
"During these times of impending calamity, the DTI should readily give assistance to consumers in time of need. We must give them relief by ensuring that they can procure the goods that they need," Favila said.
During last week’s meeting of the National Price Coordinating Council, supermarket associations and manufacturers of basic commodities assured the government that prices would not go up this Christmas.
Undersecretary for Consumer Welfare Zenaida Cuison Maglaya said, "there is no reason for consumers to worry about spiraling prices this Christmas. Supply of basic goods is sufficient to meet the expected upsurge in demand."
Prevailing prices of pasta, tomato sauce and cheese barely moved compared to December last year and, save for a few brands, the prices of mayonnaise and fruit cocktail did not incur significant increases versus the price in 2004.
Prices of manufactured/processed goods have also remained generally stable in the last three months particularly for canned sardines, luncheon meat, meat loaf, instant noodles and condiments.
The Department of Agriculture has also assured the public that there is no supply shortage of chicken in the market as local poultry growers and traders would be bringing in five million kilos of chicken in December.
To curb profiteering, the DTI plans to publish a Price Guide in the major dailies to help consumers determine the prevailing prices of basic commodities in the market.
DTI also advises consumers to report any knowledge of profiteering by calling the hotline number 751-3330 or sending DTI<space>message to 2920.