DTI OKs higher candle prices

MANILA, Philippines - Prices of candles will go up by 75 centavos up to P2.75 starting Sept. 17 amid rising cost of paraffin wax.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) released yesterday the new suggested retail prices (SRPs) for the Esperma variety of Liwanag candles: 20-piece pack of white Liwanag Esperma #3, P44.75 from P43.75; 20-piece pack of white Liwanag Esperma #5, P62 from P60.75; four-piece pack of white Liwanag Esperma #16, P32.50 from P31.75; four-piece pack of white Liwanag Esperma #18, P53 from P51.75; and two-piece pack of Liwanag Esperma #24, P125.50 from P122.75.

It was the first time in three years that the DTI approved higher SRPs for the item.

DTI Consumer Protection Group Undersecretary Victorio Mario Dimagiba said DTI records show the cost of paraffin wax has increased to P94.60 from P88.20 from 2011 to this year.

“Given that the price adjustment only takes effect by Sept. 17, retailers are reminded to abide by the current SRPs for candles until such time that the new approved SRPs are in effect. Consumers, on the other hand, are forewarned from buying overpriced candles and encouraged to report this to the DTI,” he said.

The DTI advised consumers to go on an early All Souls’ Day shopping to purchase candles at lower prices.

Candles are among the products categorized under basic necessities under the Price Act.

Consumers can visit the DTI website www.dti.gov.ph.

for the latest copy of the SRPs of non-agricultural basic necessities and prime commodities.

Complaints on higher SRPs can be coursed through the DTI hotline 751330 or 0917-8343330.