Commodity prices, supply in Zamboanga stable – DTI

MANILA, Philippines-  Supply of basic commodities in Zamboanga City remains stable despite panic buying brought by the stand-off between government forces and Muslim rebels, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

DTI Consumer Welfare and Business Regulation Group (CWBRG) in a bulletin on Thursday, September 12, said, “There is no shortage  in supply of commodities. However, panic buying was observed”.

It added that prices of basic necessities and prime commodities also “remain constant,” as fighting continued for the 4th day.

READ: MNLF rebels burn houses, step up attacks

The  fight between the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and military, which started on September 9 prompted all establishments in the conflict area  to close shop. 

Some shops, however, managed to open today, September 12,  DTI noted.

Gasoline stations in the conflict area, however, have not opened.

Banks and ATMs are open while Guiwan and Santa Cruz public markets already opened after a 2-day shutdown.

READ: Banks remain closed in Zamboanga

The DTI also said that some fastfood stores temporarily closed their stores: 6 out of 10 Jollibee branches in the city remain closed, while the lone Max restaurant, which is 1.5 km from the confilct area, remained closed.

Four of the 5 Mercury Drug stores in the area are also open, but operating only until 7 p.m. – Rappler.com