Prepared DTI-Davao to Handle Allegations of Stockpiling and Unjust Price Increases
In the Philippines, authorities are on high alert to prevent hoarding and overpricing of essential medical supplies as Davao Region logging only a few cases of Mpox. The Department of Trade and Industry-Davao Region (DTI-Davao) has assured the public that it is prepared to address any concerns related to inflated prices of face masks and alcohol.
During the Business Forum Matters held at Hukad, Abreeza Mall on May 30, 2025, DTI-Davao Acting Assistant Regional Director Rachel Remitio highlighted the agency's continued vigilance in monitoring the supply and pricing of goods as part of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging Infectious Diseases. emphasized the agency's crucial role in regulating and supporting businesses, especially retailers and registered establishments.
Remitio reaffirmed that the DTI would promptly address consumer complaints within its jurisdiction, but would also promptly endorse concerns to the appropriate agencies when necessary. This includes referring pricing issues related to medical equipment to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and concerns about product quality to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health (DOH).
As the public's concern arose over circulating videos and photos of panic buying of face masks, DTI-Davao has yet to receive any formal complaints. However, the agency expressed readiness to collaborate with consumers and other agencies to prevent any irregularities.
Meanwhile, the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City reported treating three confirmed cases of Mpox and is currently housing seven confirmed suspect cases awaiting test results from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).
SPMC Medical Center Chief Dr. Ricardo Audan confirmed that Mpox is considered a mild viral infection and does not spread as rapidly as Covid-19. The hospital has designated 20 isolation beds specifically for Mpox patients. As of May 30, 2025, Davao City has reported six confirmed cases of Mpox over the past two months, with an additional three confirmed cases in Davao de Oro.
Sellers have been urged to avoid exploiting the situation by overpricing essential goods. Authorities, including the medical and government sectors, are asking the public to remain calm, avoid panic buying, and report any abusive business practices to the proper agencies.
- The DTI-Davao Region remains vigilant in monitoring the supply and pricing of goods, as part of the IATF on Emerging Infectious Diseases, with a focus on regulating and supporting businesses, especially retailers and registered establishments.
- DTI-Davao is prepared to promptly address any concerns related to inflated prices of face masks and alcohol, and will refer pricing issues related to medical equipment to the Philippine National Police, as well as concerns about product quality to the Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Health.
- In Davao City, the Southern Philippines Medical Center has reported treating three confirmed cases of Mpox and is currently housing seven confirmed suspect cases awaiting test results. As of May 30, 2025, Davao City has reported six confirmed cases of Mpox over the past two months, with an additional three confirmed cases in Davao de Oro.
- Authorities, including the medical and government sectors, are asking the public to remain calm, avoid panic buying, and report any abusive business practices, such as overpricing essential goods, to the proper agencies.
