DTI-CAR warns profiteers, hoarders as monitoring heightens

BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Cordillera warned business establishments that take advantage of the current fuel crisis to engage in profiteering and hoarding of products that such actions will not only result in a fine but also include a jail term.
“We at the DTI are vigilant, and we also need the public’s help in reporting anyone who engages in acts that violate the law. They can report to any DTI office or other government office, as such acts are prohibited,” DTI-Cordillera director Raymond Panhon said in Filipino during a press briefing during the Cordillera Commerce and Consumer Chronicles at a hotel here on Monday.
“Everybody is having difficulty with the crisis; let us not take advantage,” Panhon, a lawyer, said.
Lawyer Samuel Gallardo, assistant DTI-Cordillera director, said they monitor and increase manpower in provincial consumer protection units from other DTI divisions to check basic necessities and commodities more often.
He said the region’s current buffer stock is 30 to 60 days.
He added that the local price coordinating councils at the provincial and municipal levels have all been activated, chaired by the mayors and governors, who also monitor prices and supplies.
In this city, an online application launched about two weeks ago that allows the public to report information has not received any complaints related to profiteering or hoarding.
He said there is no record of panic buying in the city.
“We have been active in responsible consumerism campaigns that discourage panic buying, as it would just lead to wastage if the items are spoiled and money is spent on unused goods,” he added.
Both officials urged the public to stay calm, assuring the government is working to distribute all products to everyone. **Liza Agoot