Cebu: A 60-day price freeze is now in place for basic commodities in Cebu to protect residents affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake Tuesday night. This, after the Cebu Provincial Board declared a state of calamity Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press release, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said its monitoring teams have been deployed to inspect markets, verify prices, and ensure an adequate supply of goods. 'The enforcement is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to fully mobilize all government efforts for the relief and rescue of affected residents,' it said.

DTI urged the public to report any violation by sending messages to [email protected] or calling its hotline, 1-DTI (1-384). Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque said the price freeze will ensure businesses will not take advantage of the situation and ensure a steady supply of essential commodities. 'We recognize the heavy toll this disaster has brought to families. Beyond enforcing the price freeze, our priority is to ensure that prices and supplies are affordable and stable. DTI will be vigilant in making sure that consumers are protected from undue price increases,' she said.

The freeze price includes liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). 'By ensuring price stability, the DOE seeks to protect households from undue economic burden and guarantee the continued availability of essential fuel products that are critical in cooking, lighting, and other immediate recovery needs.'