MANILA, Philippines — A lawmaker has called on the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to ensure that businesses do not exploit the Christmas season by raising prices on essential goods for Noche Buena.

According to Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III on Monday, businesses should avoid using the holiday festivities as an opportunity to increase the prices of products such as cheese, macaroni, spaghetti sauce, fruit cocktail, all-purpose cream, ham, and other traditional Noche Buena staples.

“Ang Pasko ay panahon ng pagmamahal at pagbabahagi. Dapat matiyak natin na hindi ito magiging panahon ng pang-aabuso at pagsasamantala,” he said.

He noted the importance of maintaining fair pricing for essential goods, particularly for low-income families. 

“Mahalaga na mapanatili ang patas na presyo ng mga pangunahing bilihin para sa lahat ng Pilipino, lalo na ang mga mahihirap,” he said.

Pimentel said that the DTI should strengthen its monitoring efforts and address any signs of price manipulation.

“Ang DTI ay dapat magsagawa ng mas mahigpit na pagbabantay sa mga presyo ng mga paninda, lalo na sa panahon ng Pasko,” he stated.

“Kailangan nating tiyakin na walang mang-aabusong negosyante at ang bawat Pilipino ay makakapagdiwang ng Pasko nang maayos at payapa,” he said.

Pimentel also pointed out the need to prevent stock hoarding and excessive price hikes driven by profit motives during the holiday season.

The lawmaker reminded retailers to follow the suggested retail price set by the DTI and comply with consumer protection laws.

Additionally, Pimentel encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any irregularities to the authorities.