DTI releases 2025 school supply price guide ahead of class opening

With classes set to resume on June 16, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has launched the 2025 edition of the Gabay sa Pamimili ng School Supplies, providing parents with a reliable reference for school supply prices to help them prepare for the new academic year.

This year’s guide covers 195 items across 12 categories. According to the DTI, 29 products saw price reductions, 17 increased in cost, while 101 remained stable. Additionally, 48 new items were added to the list to reflect current market offerings.

Among the most significant price drops are four notebook variants, which became more affordable by P5 to P10. Twenty-four types of pad paper also decreased by P1 to P6, while a widely used pencil brand lowered its price by P5.

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque noted that the guide aligns with the administration’s efforts to ease the cost of education-related expenses. “In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda, the DTI is working to ensure that Filipino families have access to affordable school supplies,” she said. “This guide aims to support parents in sending their children to school equipped and ready, without stretching the family budget.”

According to the 2025 guide, notebook prices range from P15 to P52, pad papers from P15 to P48.75, and pencils from P11 to P24. Ballpens are priced between P3 and P33, while sharpeners range from P15 to P69 and rulers from P16 to P39. Crayons can cost anywhere from P12 to P114, depending on the quantity, and erasers are sold between P4.50 and P20 depending on size.

The complete guide is available for download on the DTI website, helping consumers make informed and budget-friendly choices for the school year.