THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has imposed a price freeze on basic commodities in the province of Biliran following an incident affecting the Biliran Bridge.
The bridge connecting Biliran and Leyte has sustained significant damage in certain areas, which prompted the province to issue a resolution declaring a state of calamity last Dec. 27, 2024. In line with this, the DTI announced on Monday a price freeze to prevent a surge in prices.
“Reports show that prices are stable, although a few items were out of stock,” the department said.
“To maintain the flow of essential goods, the provincial government prepares and monitors landing ramps for barge operations,” it added.
Under the price freeze, prices of basic necessities such as canned fish, processed milk, coffee, laundry soap, bread, and salt will be fixed.
According to a technical assessment, the bridge had been compromised due to prolonged corrosion, saltwater exposure and heavy daily traffic. Authorities then recommended deploying barges to accommodate cargo trucks carrying essential goods, perishable items, and fuel to address the situation.
The provincial government assured that measures are in place such as major repairs to the bridge to ensure continuous delivery of goods and services throughout the province.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council recommended the state of calamity declaration to ensure a steady supply and prices of goods and to mobilize additional resources to mitigate the incident’s impact.
Under Section 6 of Republic Act 7581 or the Prices Act, prices of basic necessities in areas under a state of calamity are automatically fixed at a certain level and are not allowed to increase.
The price control remains in effect for 60 days unless lifted earlier by the president.
