MANILA -- The Department of Trade and Industry-Consumer Protection Group (DTI-CPG) has assured consumers that prices of candles remain stable despite increasing demand in observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.
DTI-CPG Undersecretary Teodoro Pascua said Tuesday prices and supplies of candles are “generally stable” and that their prices have so far not shown any movement compared to last year.
Pascua added that the prices of candles are within the suggested retail prices (SRPs), while other brands have lower prices than their SRPs.
“Based on the Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau’s (FTEB) monitoring in the National Capital Region (NCR), the monitored prevailing prices of some candles are even lower than the set SRP,” he said.
The SRPs of Liwanag Esperma candles range from PHP36 to PHP136.50; Manila Wax Sperma, from PHP40.50 to PHP69.75; 5-Star Esperma, from PHP27.50 to PHP115; Export Candles, from PHP29.75 to PHP99.75; and Export Vigil Candles, from PHP44.75 to PHP69.75.
Pascua noted that retailers should not sell unscented candles higher than their SRPs, as candles are considered basic goods.
He also said the DTI is closely monitoring the prices and supplies of flowers.
The official encouraged consumers to report any incident of overpricing to DTI at 751-3330 or at 0917-834-3330. (PNA)
