60-day price freeze in Samar as San Juanico rehab triggers ‘state of calamity’

Lighting makes San Juanico bridge an attraction. The inter-island link is undergoing rehabilitation, which limits the passage of heavy vehicles. —CONTRIBUTED

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Friday said that a 60-day price freeze has been imposed on the whole province of Samar. The province was declared under a state of calamity last May 20.

In a statement, the DTI reminded business establishments “to comply with the price freeze on basic necessities.” This is in effect until July 19.

The agency urged the public to report retailers, distributors, and manufacturers selling basic necessities above the prevailing prices. This may be done by calling the One-DTI (1-384) hotline or emailing [email protected].

READ: Samar under state of emergency due to San Juanico Bridge limit

Under the Price Act, penalties for price manipulation include imprisonment five to 15 years. Violators also face fines ranging from P5,000 to P2 million.

Meanwhile, those found violating the price ceiling face prison time of one year to 10 years. Fines range from P5,000 to P1 million.

The Samar provincial board declared a state of emergency across the province last May 20. This was due to vehicle restrictions imposed on the iconic San Juanico Bridge.

San Juanico Bridge off-limist to heavy trucks

The 52-year-old bridge, which connects the islands of Samar and Leyte, is set to undergo major rehabilitation.

As a result, the Department of Public Works and Highways has imposed restrictions on the passage of trucks and other heavy vehicles on the 2.16-kilometer bridge.

Acting on the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council chaired by Governor Sharee Ann Tan, the decision allows the provincial government to utilize its quick response fund.

READ: Lighting and sound: Often overlooked, yet vital to real estate

This aims to alleviate the economic and logistical difficulties brought about by the weight restrictions now imposed on the inter-island bridge.

The price control covers essential goods such as rice, corn, bread, fresh vegetables, root crops, pork, beef, poultry, eggs, milk, coffee, sugar, cooking oil, and salt.

Also included in the list are laundry soap, detergent, firewood, charcoal, candles, and certain medicines classified as essential by the Department of Health.