Biliran, Philippines — In response to a recent incident affecting the Biliran Bridge, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Biliran Provincial Office has implemented a price freeze on basic necessities. This action follows the province’s declaration of a state of calamity last 27 December 2024, through a Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution.

Based on the technical assessment conducted, the bridge has sustained damage in certain areas due to corrosion, exposure to saltwater, and the constant daily movement of heavy loads. To address this, a barge is recommended to be utilized to handle the increased flow of cargo trucks transporting goods, perishable products, and fuel to the province, while major repairs to the bridge are undertaken.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has recommended declaring a state of calamity to stabilize prices, ensure the continuous delivery of essential goods and services, and facilitate the mobilization of resources to mitigate the impact of the incident.

Section 6 of Republic Act 7581, also known as the Price Act, mandates that during a state of calamity or emergency, prices of basic necessitices within the affected area are automatically frozen at their prevailing levels. This automatic price control lasts for 60 days unless sooner lifted by the President of the Philippines.

The DTI continues to regularly monitor the prices and supplies of basic necessities and prime commodities under its jurisdiction. Reports show that prices are stable, although a few items were out of stock. To maintain the flow of essential goods, the provincial government prepares and monitors landing ramps for barge operations;.

The public is advised to stay calm as authorities are working diligently to ensure the continued supply of essential goods to the entire province. ♦

Date of release: 06 January 2025

Related posts:

DTI convenes global experts for plenary meeting electrical safety standards and innovation DTI pushes for global expansion of Philippine industries at Tatak Pinoy Summit PH fruits drive USD 49M record sales at 2024 China-ASEAN expo PH set to be Asia’s premiere agri, IT-BPM hub DTI highlights Philippines’ position as a global coconut powerhouse at COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair OBRA MIMAROPA wraps up historic trade show for entrepreneurs and creatives DTI’s livelihood program empowers entrepreneurs from marginalized communities in Laguna DTI intensifies business monitoring in La Union ahead of holiday season