The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Bohol confirmed that prices of basic needs in markets remained at a normal range since the price freeze order was implemented in places under a state of calamity as the drought brought by El-Niño persists.

The DTI which previously issued a stern warning against businessmen who would neglect the prize freeze expressed its appreciation of retailers for maintaining the prices of basic goods.

The department noted that the initiative is a measure to help consumers affected by the prolonged dry spell.

The DTI has already deployed its emergency price monitoring team across the province to ensure that retailers would not take advantage of the calamity by unreasonably increasing prices.

Officials of the department in Bohol have also taken measures to inspect if prices of agricultural products have changed during the period.

Agricultural products are seen to be the most affected during the dry spell, particularly those that would not grow or survive with limited water.

The department is yet to acquire data on the state of production of the agriculture sector from the Provincial Agriculture Office.

At Pamilacan Island, a barangay 12.5 kilometers from mainland Baclayon, residents previously told DYRD Balita that a five-gallon container of water that normally would cost 40 pesos is now sold at 60 pesos in the island.

Water supply has been running low in the island as the dry spell continues.

Residents numbering more than 1500 who depend on rainwater stored in their water reservoirs are now coping with empty cisterns and expensive containers of water bought from the mainland. (with reports from Allen Doydora)