DTI, DOH Freeze Prices of 148 Essential Medicines in Areas Under State of Calamity

The government steps in to halt medicine price hikes.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Health (DOH) have enforced a price freeze on 148 medicines in areas under a declared state of calamity.

The price freeze takes effect as several parts of the Philippines grapple with the impact of Typhoons Crising, Dante, and Emong, along with the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat.

It seeks to stop those who want to take advantage of the current situation, given that medicines are in high demand, DOH Secretary Teddy Herbosa said in a report,

Affordable Medication for 60 days

The price freeze on 148 essential medicines will remain in effect for 60 days, counting from the date an area officially declares a state of calamity. This temporary but crucial measure is designed to ensure continued access to affordable medication in communities hit hardest by recent weather disturbances.

As of writing, multiple towns and cities across Luzon and Visayas —along with select areas in Metro Manila—have formally declared a state of calamity in response to widespread flooding and infrastructure damage. With torrential rains and the Southwest Monsoon showing no signs of letting up, more declarations are expected in the coming days. The growing list underscores the urgent need for stability in healthcare access, especially in disaster-affected zones where supply chains are at risk and demand for medicine is heightened.

Which Medicines are Included in the Price Freeze?

The following medicines, vitamins, and minerals have been included in the price freeze:

• Anaesthetics
• Analgesics
• Antiasthma
• Anticoagulants, Antiplatelets & Fibrinolytics
• Anticonvulsant
• Antidiabetic Agents
• Antidiarrheals
• Antidotes
• Antiemetics
• Antihistamines
• Antihypertensives & Anti-Aginal Agents
• Antimicrobials
• Antiparkinsonian Drug
• Antipsychotics
• Antiseptics & Disinfectants
• Cardiac Drugs
• Corticosteroids
• Diuretics
• Drugs Acting on the Uterus
• Dsylipidemic Agents
• Insulin Preparations
• Medicines for Electrolyte, Acid-Base and Caloric Disturbances
• Topical Antifungals & Antiparasites
• Vitamins & Minerals

A full list of specific medicines covered by the price freeze can be found here. 

The government encourages the public to report instances of price hikes of medicines in affected areas. Reports can be coursed through the following:

• DOH Hotline: (02) 8651-7800
• DTI Hotline: 1-384