MARCH 21, 2026 — Food manufacturers in the Philippines have agreed to freeze prices of basic goods for up to 60 days, a move announced by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after inspecting Century Pacific Food Inc.’s facility in Laguna. The government says this is meant to cushion Filipinos from global tensions affecting commodities, while assuring that supply remains stable.

President Marcos Jr. proudly declared that “not only Century but various food processors and retailers as well, we have adequate stock,” adding that businesses pledged not to increase prices “for about a month, and for some maybe up to two months.”

Century Pacific CEO Ted Po echoed this, saying, “Our factories are running, our inventories are healthy and our distribution network continues to supply retailers nationwide.”

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque further assured the public that inspections showed food supply could last at least 30 days, with no signs of hoarding or profiteering.

On paper, this sounds like a win for consumers. For two months, families can breathe a little easier knowing that canned goods, dairy, and other essentials won’t suddenly spike in price. But this is a temporary freeze, not a permanent solution. The government itself admits that the move is a cushion against global tensions — particularly the war in the Middle East that has already driven oil prices to alarming levels.

If diesel could hit ₱130 to ₱150 per liter, as industry sources warn, then transport costs will eventually trickle down to food prices. The freeze buys time, but it doesn’t erase the looming pressure.

For ordinary households, this is a short-term reprieve. For businesses, it’s a balancing act between keeping operations stable and absorbing rising costs. And for the government, it’s a political gamble because once the 60 days are up, the public will demand answers if prices suddenly surge.

The upbeat messaging from Malacañang is clear: don’t panic, don’t hoard, trust the system. But we have seen this movie before. Price freezes are like band-aids slapped on a wound that keeps reopening.

So when the 60 days are over, will we be left with stable shelves or skyrocketing prices that no freeze can hold back?

(Image: Philippine News Agency)