MANILA — Senator Erwin Tulfo has called on the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to inspect retailers allegedly violating the price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities.

“Heed the call of our kababayans. A simple check of social media sentiments should give you an idea that there are various areas not applying the price freeze,” Tulfo said in a statement.

In a report, it said that the DTI has extended the voluntary price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities until May 10 following agreements with manufacturers and retailers.

The initial implementation period was set until April 30, with the agency earlier stating that it does not expect supply shortages in the coming weeks.

The price freeze covers selected essential goods classified as basic necessities and prime commodities, which are regularly monitored by the agency.

Under Republic Act No. 7581, or the Price Act, basic necessities refer to goods considered essential for survival and health, particularly during disasters and emergencies. These include bread, canned fish and other marine products, potable water, processed milk, and locally manufactured noodles.

Prime commodities, meanwhile, are items not classified as basic survival needs but remain important in daily living. These include flour, processed or canned pork, beef, and poultry; vinegar, fish sauce, and soy sauce; toilet soap; and paper products.

Violations of a price ceiling under the Price Act carry penalties of imprisonment ranging from one to 10 years, fines from P5,000 to P1 million, or both.