Individuals and storeowners who will hoard face masks, alcohols, vitamins and other basic supplies will be arrested, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday.
The PNP issued the warning as the spread of the novel corona virus triggered panic buying among fearful residents.
Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac, PNP spokesperson, said there is a possibility that some people might take advantage of the situation to earn more money by hoarding supplies essential to prevent the infection of the deadly respiratory virus.
Upon the orders of PNP chief, Police General Archie Gamboa, Banac said the PNP will assist the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in lateral coordination of measures “to stop possible hoarding and diminishing of supplies.”
“The CIDG [Criminal Investigation and Detection Group] and local police units are on high readiness mode, awaiting notice if ever DTI will seek police assistance to identify possible storehouses and track down persons suspected to be hoarding supplies and violating existing laws imposed by authorities,” Banac said.
Since the confirmation Thursday of the first case of nCoV infection in the country, there have been multiple reports of panic buying of surgical masks, alcohols, and vitamin Cs in pharmacies and supermarkets.
In Manila alone, there were stores in Bambang where masks have already reportedly been sold out.
The DTI is mandated to implement laws that aim to protect consumers from illegal acts of price manipulation such as hoarding, profiteering, and cartel.
Banac, however, said that situation on the ground “remains normal” as he advised people to refrain from panic buying of basic supplies and commodities, and remain calm, composed and informed. (Martin Sadongdong)