‘No price hike on basic goods for 30 days’

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March 18, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Manufacturers of basic goods have pledged to keep prices steady for the next 30 days, despite mounting cost pressures from the ongoing Middle East conflict, the Department of Trade and Industry announced yesterday.

The DTI said that some manufacturers vowed to keep current prices for up to 60 days.

Prices that are expected to remain stable within the next 30 days are canned sardines such as Unipak, 555, Ligo, Lucky 7, Fresca, Morjon, Golden Town and Mega; bread products such as Pinoy Tasty and Pinoy Pandesal; bottled water such as Wilkins and Nature’s Spring; toilet and laundry soaps such as Safeguard Pure White, Tide Bar Original Scent and Green Cross Pure White; condiments such as Datu Puti’s soy sauce and vinegar and Lorins Patis (fish sauce); CDO processed canned meat and Liwanag candles.

Meanwhile, prices of the following brands will remain steady for 60 days: Lucky Me, Ho-Mi, Argentina, Lucky 7, 555, Swift Premium, Wow! and Shanghai.

Manufacturers of Kopiko, Nescafe, San Mig coffee and Export candle have also pledged to maintain current prices.

The commitment was made during a meeting with Trade Secretary Cristina Roque on Monday, to discuss the impact of the Middle East conflict on prices and supply of basic goods.

“We recognize the financial strain faced by consumers while also acknowledging the cost pressures confronting manufacturers. Our priority remains to ensure fair and reasonable pricing,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said.

She said the commitment to keep prices stable reflects the manufacturers’ shared concern for Filipino consumers.

The DTI said it would continue to work with manufacturers to ensure the steady supply and stable prices of basic goods.