Palace: No price hikes on basic goods expected until mid-April

Philippine manufacturers have committed to maintaining current prices for basic goods until April 16, 2026.

This development was reported by Trade Secretary Cristina Roque to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. following concerns over potential economic impacts from the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said ,“Nangako po ang mga manufacturers na hindi nga po magkakaroon ng price increase hanggang April 16, 2026,” Castro said.

To ensure this commitment is upheld, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will conduct weekly price monitoring and continue its engagement with manufacturers.

Roque also plans to hold further discussions to explore ways to maintain price stability beyond the April 16 deadline.

“At sa aking pagkakaalam, balak po niyang makipag-meeting muli ngayon sa mga manufacturers para po hindi tumaas ang presyo,” Castro said.

While the government is implementing measures to cushion the impact of rising production and transportation costs, officials acknowledged that price increases may become unavoidable if global conditions worsen.

“May mga pagkakataon po talaga na hindi natin kakayaning pigilan dahil sa nangyayaring sigalot sa Middle East,” Castro said.

However, the public is assured that supplies remains sufficient and is encouraged to remain calm as the government continues to assess the situation and prepare contingency measures.

“Lahat po ng puwedeng gawin ng ahensiya ng gobyerno ay gagawin po para po hindi maging mahirap na pasanin ito sa ating mga kababayan,”Castro said.