DTI-Bukidnon intensifies SRP monitoring of Noche Buena items

MALAYBALAY CITY (PIA)—The Department of Trade and Industry in Bukidnon (DTI-Bukidnon) has strengthened its monitoring of Noche Buena goods sold in retail stores here following the issuance of the latest price guide.

Junar Merla, DTI Bukidnon Consumer Protection Division chief, said nine of the 20 stores monitored received LOIs (Letters of Inquiry). The identified retail stores must justify to the agency why they are selling Noche Buena products at prices higher than the government-issued suggested retail price (SRP).

The DTI, however, emphasizes that it will not impose penalties on sellers whose prices exceed the SRPs issued for these goods. This is because Noche Buena products are not categorized as Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities (BNPCs) under Republic Act No. 75181, as amended by RA No. 10623.

Nonetheless, in order to avoid overpricing of these goods this holiday season, the agency will continue to monitor price movements to ensure that business establishments adhere to the prescribed SRPs.

Last month, the DTI released a list of suggested retail prices for Noche Buena items to help consumers with their Christmas shopping.

The price guide includes ham, keso de bola, cheese, sandwich spread, mayonnaise, pasta or spaghetti, elbow macaroni, salad macaroni, spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, and creamer or all-purpose cream. (DTI-Bukidnon/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

The Department of Trade and Industry in Bukidnon intensifies its monitoring of Noche Buena items sold in retail stores here following the issuance of the latest price guide. (DTI-Bukidnon)