DTI Approves Price Increase for 63 Basic, Prime Goods Starting Next Month

Consumers are set to feel additional pressure on their budgets as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has approved price hikes for 63 basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPC), effective next month.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque announced that of the 217 BNPCs listed in the Suggested Retail Price (SRP) bulletin, 28% will see price increases, with adjustments ranging from below 5% to just under 10%.

Price Adjustments Explained

Roque assured the public that the increases are “very minimal.” For example, a canned sardine product currently priced at ₱25 will see an 8% increase, equating to around ₱1.60.

“We understand the side of manufacturers,” Roque said, explaining that the hikes were necessitated by rising costs of raw materials and labor.

Items Affected

The approved price adjustments cover essential items such as:

• Canned sardines
• Candles
• Batteries
• Powdered milk

Timeline and Consumer Notice

The updated SRP bulletin will be released next month, giving consumers time to prepare for the changes.

“Next month will be the start of the price increase,” Roque said. “At least there’s also enough time for us to inform consumers.”

Definition of Basic and Prime Goods

Under the Price Act, basic necessities are goods vital for daily sustenance, including rice, canned fish, fresh meat, potable water, instant noodles, and cooking oil. Prime commodities, while not essential, are crucial during crises, such as cement, fertilizers, and construction materials.

Impact on Consumers

While the increases are reportedly minimal, they come amid ongoing concerns over rising costs of living, leaving many households to further tighten their budgets.