DTI monitoring prices of bottled water in Baguio City

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 17) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is monitoring prices of bottled water in Baguio City after they allegedly ballooned due to a diarrhea outbreak, local authorities reported.

DTI Baguio-Benguet Consumer Protection Division Ralph Altiyen said initial random inspections were conducted on Jan. 11, covering four establishments and on Jan. 12 for another set of stores.

«Our monitoring team went to compare the real time prices of bottled water against the prices we gathered last week and early this week,» Altiyen said.

But the DTI officer noted that some store owners haven't noticed any increase in the demand for bottled water that may affect supply.

According to Mayor Benjamin Magalong, the city received reports of «unusual price increases» in bottled and mineral water amid the acute gastroenteritis outbreak in the city last week.

READ: EXPLAINER: What is gastroenteritis and how to treat it?

Magalong warned establishments against taking advantage of the health emergency for financial gain.

The Department of Health on Monday announced that the outbreak in the city has been «contained» after an alarming spike of cases were recorded.

READ: DOH: Gastroenteritis outbreak in Baguio now 'contained'

The DTI said the public is encouraged to report unreasonable price hikes for appropriate sanction at 665-3526 / 0917-817-1743.