DTI to decide on price hike requests for basic goods

 The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is looking to start issuing its decision on requests for price adjustments of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPC) this January.

-  LOUELLA DESIDERIO

"Around this month, we will start releasing letter of concurrence," Trade Assistant Secretary Amanda Nograles told reporters over the weekend.

Out of the 217 BNPCs in the suggested retail price (SRP) bulletin being issued by the DTI, she said the agency has received requests for price adjustments for 63 items.

"Fifty-nine of those are general price increase. But two items have weight reduction and corresponding price increase, whereas two will have a weight and price reduction," Nograles said.

She said those with requests for price adjustments are for canned sardines, processed milk, coffee, bread, instant noodles, bottled water, processed canned meat and canned beef, condiments, toilet soap, candles and batteries.