House Bill Proposes Price Control on Construction Materials to Prevent Exploitation During Disasters
Construction materials have steadily increased due to inflation, with costs spiking further during calamities. As a result, a new House Bill proposes implementing price controls on essential construction materials to address this issue.
(Photo : Pexels/Mikael Blomkvist )
House Bill to Freeze Price of Construction Materials
On Tuesday, May 21, House Bill 16464, which would require the freezing of pricing for construction materials during times of disaster, was introduced by Representative Alan Uno Ecleo of the Dinagat Islands legislative body.
Under the proposed legislation, Republic Act 7581, often known as the Price Act, which safeguards consumers against unwarranted increases in the prices of essential items during times of emergency, would be modified.
As per Ecleo, his proposed legislation would expand the list of essential commodities and critical needs for individuals after a catastrophe to include galvanized iron sheets, construction fasteners, steel bars, hollow blocks, plywood, and cement. He also submitted House Bill 10233, also known as the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster Act, as part of the hearing on Wednesday, May 22, before the House Committee on Disaster Resilience.
Moreover, the Price Act defines basic items as flour, canned goods, dairy products, poultry, meat, and hygiene. As they are necessary for reconstructing residences, Ecleo noted that construction materials are crucial for consumers during emergencies.
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When Does the Price Act Implement?
In addition to prescribing safeguards against unwarranted price increases in emergencies and similar circumstances, the Price Act protects consumers by stabilizing the costs of essential commodities and prime necessities. Within 60 days after the disaster strike, the price freeze will be automatically lifted unless the President decides to lift it earlier.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is responsible for monitoring products that fall within its purview, including but not limited to canned fish, locally produced instant noodles, bottled water, bread, candles, laundry soap, detergent, processed milk, coffee, and salt. Additionally, the DTI checks the availability of supply to maintain price stability. On its website, DTI posts and publishes lists of the prices now being charged for these products in regions deemed to be in a state of catastrophe.
Monitoring teams at regional and provincial offices examine the supply and price of additional commodities and those deemed essential. The Undersecretary of the DTI Consumer Protection Group, Atty. Ruth B. Castelo stated that they strongly encourage producers to ensure sufficient supply in these regions.
Accordingly, the Department of Agriculture (DA) regulates the price and supply of fresh eggs, crops, sugar, pork, cattle, poultry meat, milk, vegetables, root vegetables, and fruits. This regulation also extends to cooking oil, fresh, dried, and other marine products. In contrast, the Department of Health (DOH) oversees the cost and availability of essential medications.
On the other hand, companies found to have violated the price freeze may be subject to punishment that may include imprisonment for a length of time ranging from one year to ten years, a fine starting from PHP5,000.00 to PHP1,000,000.00, or both, depending on the court's decision. Furthermore, customers are urged to report a store, distributor, or manufacturer selling basic needs at prices higher than their current rates by calling the DTI Hotline or sending an email.
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