THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said there is no need to impose a price freeze on bottled water as supply remains stable despite the possible surge in demand due to the El Niño dry spell.
“The prices of basic necessities and prime commodities, bottled water included, are all stable,” Trade Secretary Maria Cristina A. Roque told reporters on the sidelines of an event on Thursday.
“So, for now, there’s no need [for a price freeze,]” she added.
Citing the DTI’s recent talks with manufacturers and retailers of basic goods, Ms. Roque said there is no need to panic and hoard as supply remains stable.
The DTI earlier reassured the public that it will intensify its price monitoring measures on bottled water products and will coordinate with manufacturers and distributors to ensure that the market has enough supply.
Philippine Spring Water Resources, Inc., the maker of Nature’s Spring bottled water, recently said it is extending production hours and building reserve stocks in anticipation of the high demand due to the Super El Niño.
The state weather bureau said earlier the dry spell could intensify into a “very strong” El Niño from September and December, and may persist through the first months of 2027.
Meanwhile, the Trade chief said she leaves her fate to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. amid the recent Cabinet changes.
When asked if Ms. Roque is confident that she will keep her position at the DTI, she said: “We all serve as the pleasure of the President, so anytime he needs us, it’s up to him.” — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz