Price control sought in Mandaue after 'Tino' onslaught

Local

AMID the Typhoon Tino disaster, Mandaue City is taking steps to prevent price surges and hoarding of essential goods.

Mayor Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano signed Executive Order No. 2025-059 on Monday, Nov. 3, establishing the Local Price Monitoring Council (LPMC) to enforce automatic price controls, mandated price ceilings, and anti-hoarding measures across the city.

“We will monitor prices closely at public markets and grocery stores. Business owners are encouraged to maintain fair pricing and avoid taking advantage of the situation,” Ouano said.

The council, chaired by Ouano and with City Administrator Atty. Gonzalo Malig-on Jr. as vice-chairperson, includes the City Agriculturist, City Health Officer, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer, MCPO City Director, and the head of the City Business Permits and Licensing Office.

Representatives from Department of Trade Industry-Central Visayas, accredited local consumer organizations, the Local Market Vendors’ Association, and the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry also join the council.

The LPMC monitors prices of rice, canned and processed foods, bread, fresh milk, cooking oil, laundry soap, drinking water, meat, poultry, medicines, and construction materials.

It also tracks fuel and power sources, including gasoline, diesel, kerosene, solar lamps, power banks, and rechargeable lights.

The council inspects all business establishments within the city.

Authorities reminded residents to purchase only what they need and to follow local regulations to keep essential goods available for all households, especially vulnerable families.

Prior to the onslaught of Typhoon Tino, panic buying has appeared in some stores as Central and Northern Cebu, including Mandaue City.

The council conducts inspections, manages consumer complaints, and submits daily reports to the Office of the Mayor.

It can recommend sanctions, including show-cause orders, closure orders, and criminal complaints against violators of price regulations.

Before the executive order, the City Council passed Draft Resolution No. 194-2025 to prevent panic buying, hoarding, and price surges during disasters.

Councilor Jennifer Del Mar emphasized the need for responsible consumer behavior, noting that panic buying and hoarding should be avoided to ensure essential goods remain available for everyone.

She added that the city passed a resolution to strictly implement measures that stabilize prices.

The Local Price Monitoring Council will convene immediately upon the declaration of a State of Calamity and will continue to operate until the emergency ends.

The council will coordinate with national authorities and submit a comprehensive terminal report once the crisis concludes.

Mandaue City will fund the council’s operations through the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund or other appropriate local funds.(MyTVCebu)