DTI warns against panic buying as El Niño threat looms

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has urged consumers to avoid panic buying and hoarding, assuring the public that supplies of basic necessities, including bottled water, remain sufficient despite the looming threat of a severe El Niño.

Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque said manufacturers have not requested price increases for basic necessities and prime commodities, indicating that prices remain stable for now as concerns mount over a possible prolonged drought.

She made the statement on Thursday, October 15, ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to the grand opening of United Parcel Service’s Clark International Air Hub in Pampanga.

To reassure consumers about bottled-water availability, Aldeguer-Roque cited a manufacturing plant she had visited that reportedly produces 65,000 bottles an hour. She also noted that the company operates 200 manufacturing plants and had assured the government that supplies were adequate, leaving no immediate reason for consumers to stockpile bottled water.

The trade chief clarified, however, that monitoring the prices of water pails and drums does not fall within the DTI’s regular mandate, which covers basic necessities and prime commodities.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said separately on Wednesday that the DTI and the Department of the Interior and Local Government would monitor the prices of water buckets and drums to prevent overpricing and hoarding.

The government’s assurances come as authorities prepare for the possible effects of “super” El Niño, which could intensify dry conditions and raise concerns about water availability in affected areas.

While the DTI said essential goods remain adequately supplied at present, consumers are being urged to buy responsibly rather than stockpile products unnecessarily.