By CESAR JOLITO III

A citywide price freeze is now in effect in Bacolod following its declaration under a state of calamity due to the onslaught of Typhoon “Tino.”

Mayor Greg Gasataya, chairperson of the Bacolod City Local Price Coordinating Council (BC-LPCC), signed the automatic price control order together with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Negros Occidental Provincial Director Lynna Joy Cardinal to prevent overpricing and protect consumers during the recovery period.

City Administrator Mark Steven Mayo said the council has convened to ensure full enforcement of the measure, which mandates all establishments to maintain the prevailing prices of basic commodities.

“Joint inspections will be conducted in grocery stores, supermarkets and other key outlets in coordination with DTI and other national agencies. Violations will be met with show-cause orders and possible charges,” Mayo said.

He added that while the price freeze applies to essential goods, not all products — such as generator sets, which have seen a surge in demand amid power interruptions — are covered under the price ceiling.

“The council’s priority is consumer protection. We will not allow anyone to take advantage of this situation,” he emphasized.

The BC-LPCC is composed of representatives from the City Legal Office, City Administrator’s Office, Business Permits and Licensing Office, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Bacolod City Police Office, and other agencies.

Under Republic Act No. 7581 or the Price Act, prices of basic necessities are automatically frozen at their prevailing rates once a locality is placed under a state of calamity. The measure remains effective for up to 60 days, unless lifted earlier by the President or when conditions normalize.

Violators face one to 10 years of imprisonment and/or fines ranging from P5,000 to P1 million depending on the gravity of the offense./CJ, WDJ