MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will file charges against 12 medical supply stores in Manila found to be selling overpriced face masks. “In the special market monitoring conducted yesterday by the DTI in Bambang, Manila, 12 out of 17 business establishments were issued notices of violations for alleged profiteering,” DTI Undersecretary Ruth Castelo said in a press briefing. Castelo said retailers selling overpriced face masks and other medical supplies will face profiteering charges punishable with imprisonment and a fine of P5,000 up to P2 million. This was after prices of N95 face masks reportedly began to soar as much as P200 per piece as residents of areas affected by the Taal eruption experience ashfall. Inquirer calls for support for the victims of Taal volcano eruption Responding to appeals for help, the Inquirer is extending its relief to the families affected by the recent eruption of Taal volcano.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer January 15, 2020 08:37 UTC