The Philippine National Police on Monday reiterated it would be working closely with other government agencies in enforcing the law against profiteers and hoarders in areas affected by the recent flooding.
PNP Director General Oscar Albayalde cited the Price Act of 1992 (Republic Act No. 7581), which provides consumer protection by stabilizing the price and supply of basic necessities and prime commodities; and prescribing measures against undue price increases, especially during emergencies.
“In the aftermath of massive flooding in Luzon, in addition to our personnel, who have been deployed and on standby for search and rescue operations, we will also assist the Department of Trade and Industry and local government units in enforcing a price freeze on basic commodities in areas under state of calamity to prevent profiteering, hoarding, and illegal acts of price manipulation,” Albayalde said during a press conference.
“I have directed our unit commanders in these calamity areas to take the initiative in coordinating with local DTI offices to ensure [that] we can effectively protect the interest of the general public,” he added.
The PNP chief pointed out that the Price Act, which took effect on June 7, 1992, provides a minimum of 60 days of price freeze on basic and essential commodities, and automatic price control in areas affected by calamities.
“I am directing the CIDG [Criminal Investigation and Detection Group] and the Police intelligence units to closely assist in monitoring the price freeze and take appropriate actions in support of the DTI,” Albayalde said.