Traders, retailers warned vs. overpricing of Christmas food items

Philippine retailers and traders were warned against selling Christmas food items at prices higher than those set by the government. Businesses found guilty of such acts will face jail time of up to 15 years and fines reaching P2 million, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said. The agency cited Republic Act 7851, also known as the Automatic Price Control Act. On Tuesday, the trade department released suggested retail prices (SRP) of “Noche Buena" food items, which can be downloaded from the agency’s website (www.dti.gov.ph). Items covered in the list include:

• Ham: P149 (500 grams) to P418 (1 kg)
• Spaghetti sauce: P21.15 (250 grams) to P83 (1 kg)
• Spaghetti pasta: P35 (450 g) to P92 (1 kg)
• Salad elbow and macaroni: P25 (200 g) to P99 (1 kg)
• Tomato sauce: P10.90 (115 g) to P69 (1 kg)
• Mayonnaise: P22.50 (80 ml) to P193.75 (700 ml)
• Fruit cocktail: P45 (439g) to P181.75 (3062 g)
• Cheese: P62.40 (185 g) to P157.90 (470 g)
• Queso de Bola: P180 (350 g) to P335 (750 g)
• Cream: P34.50 (250ml) to P54.50 (300 g)

These prices will apply to both supermarkets and wet markets nationwide, the agency added. The DTI urged consumers to send text messages to DTI Secretary Peter Favila at 0917-8063473, call 7513330, or visit the nearest DTI regional and provincial offices. - with RJAB Jr., GMANews.TV