Overpriced goods
THE overpricing of basic commodities, particularly at this time of economic hardship brought about by the crippling coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, is an “unconscionable act.”
Described by many as an “economic sabotage,” we share the view of the beleaguered and helpless Filipino people that profiteering should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
Admittedly, however. the country’s traders, including the retailers, may be forced to adjust their prices. Note that the costs of fuel have been rising for the last nine weeks now.
In fact, public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers have asked concerned government authorities to raise fares to help them mitigate the impact of high oil prices.
But instead of fare hikes, the government expressed its willingness to help the transport sector by offering cash grants to irate bus and jeepney drivers.
Reports said the Development Budget Coordination Committee said the subsidies would be coursed through the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
It will be recalled that the LTFRB implemented the successful “pantawid pasada” program to help drivers when the government implemented the TRAIN Law in 2018.
But we urge the government to make sure that any price adjustment must be at a level that our suffering consumers, particularly the poorest of the poor, can absorb.
In the view of many, government authorities have the capacity to uphold the interest of the public even during a pandemic and other national emergencies.
Dapat laging win-win ang mga solusyon natin sa mga problemang dumarating sa atin.
