The past week shows price increases in processed milk , coffee, fish sauce , pork liempo and whole chicken.
What should consumers and the government do ?
1. In wet markets, let us check the weights by using Timbangan ng Bayan . Maybe the DTI should conduct an inventory of weighing scales. Consumers should demand pro rata refund for wrong weights. LGUs should confiscate defective weighing scales until recalibrated and impose fines.
2. LGUs in coordination with DTI and D A should require revival of simple price boards in wet market stalls for fish, veggies and meat products. Price tags help consumers and government both ways. Price tags help consumers by providing them choices and help government by showing behavior of prices.
3. SRPs for pork liempo and whole chicken can be set for a limited period until retail prices go down. Pork prices ranges from 220 to 260 a kilo while whole chicken prices range from 140 to 180 a kilo . 220 and 140 pesos a kilo are fair and reasonable SRPs.
4. The government should issue notices of violation or show cause orders and impose fines as per Price Act as amended.
5. Collaborate with market vendors associations to assist in the compliance with simple and doable measures on price monitoring and enforcement.
6. Engage with consumer organizations accredited or recognized by the government in price adjustments of Basic Necessities and Prime commodities .