THE Department of Trade and Industry in the Cordillera (DTI-CAR) found out that most establishments in the region have ran out of masks.

DTI–CAR has also sought the help of its national office to communicate with suppliers for the availability of supply in lieu of the 2019-novel corona virus (nCov).

Jerry Agpes, officer in charge of consumer protection division of DTI-CAR, disclosed major drug stores have relayed there are no stock of surgical and n95 masks.

Agpes added some 57 outlets recently monitored have not increased its price.

Breakdown of monitored stores in the region comprised of 10 in Baguio City, three in Benguet, seven in Abra, six in Apayao, seven in Ifugao, 17 in Kalinga and seven in Mt. Province.

“This is a temporary shortage that we are experiencing, we hope the supply arrives,” Agpes said.

DTI also warned retailers and sellers of the said commodities not to hoard or overprice items.

“We remind public not to panic buy, be vigilant if there are overpricing and untoward business practices that can be reported directly to the DTI office. We also remind retailers, sellers to practice proper business ethics and avoid hoarding and overpriced products,” Agpes added.

On hoarding and overpricing of masks, public are advised to report to DTI hotlines available 665-3526, 304-1129 or 442-7859.

DTI Baguio-Benguet provincial director Freda Gawisan said monitoring of supply of face mask started following the eruption of Taal Volcano adding with the occurrence of nCoV, drug stores and other establishments ran out of face mask due to increase in demand.

According to World Health Organization, the 2019-nCov can be transmitted through human to human transmission. This can be facilitated through coughing, sneezing and handling infected respiratory secretions, which could be aggravated during mass gathering.

To prevent entry of the virus in the Cordillera, all were enjoined by Department of Health Cordillera to practice prevention actions to help mitigate spread of respiratory infections such as; washing of hands often with soap and water especially if in contact with respiratory secretions, practicing cough etiquette, avoid contact with sick person especially those with respiratory conditions, wash and cook food thoroughly.