DTI personnel conducting price and supply monitoring in a grocery store aisle in Eastern Visayas, following the state of calamity declaration. The individual is wearing a white polo shirt and face mask, holding a clipboard while inspecting shelves stocked with canned goods and other essentials.

Eastern Visayas, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has announced a price freeze across Eastern Visayas. This action follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a state of calamity, effective June 5. The measure aims to accelerate the repair of the San Juanico Bridge and ease the disruptions for residents of Samar and Leyte.

“Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas vision, we recognize the heavy toll this disruption brings to families, workers, and small businesses,” said DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

“That’s why we are acting without delay—to keep prices stable, protect consumers from abuse, and ensure no one is left behind during this difficult time,” the trade chief added.

The DTI Region 8 is actively monitoring the situation. Daily price and supply monitoring of basic necessities is conducted in trading centers, including cities and municipalities across the region. Monitoring reports from the DTI Region 8 Provincial Offices show that prices are stable and stocks are sufficient, despite the delays in replenishing stocks.

The DTI will also host a tripartite supply chain and logistics dialogue in Tacloban City on June 13. This dialogue will convene all key stakeholders in the supply chain to address pressing issues currently affecting the region due to the  San Juanico Bridge’s load restriction.

The DTI advises the to remain calm as the immediate mobilization of goods is being facilitated to ensure consistent supply and maintain price stability in the region. ♦

Date of Release: 16 June 2025