THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Central Luzon is conducting random inspections on pharmacies and hardware in the region amid the reports of overpricing of face masks.

DTI-Central Luzon information officer Warren Serrano said the agency is monitoring the prices of face masks, especially the N95 type as the demand instantly surged due to public’s fear on ashfall’s effect on health.

The N95 masks are said to be the most appropriate protection against the possible health risk of being exposed to volcanic ash.

Serrano said they have been receiving reports online of the alleged overpricing of the said health product by some pharmacies and hardware stores in the region.

Since Monday, netizens have complained of the sudden jack-up of prices of the said masks from the usual P25 to P30 per piece to up to P200 Tuesday.

“There is no suggested retail price issued for face masks yet but its increase must be reasonable. Anything that is not will be investigated,” he said.

Serrano warned sellers of the possible criminal or administrative liabilities they may face under the Consumer Protection Law if proven to have taken advantage of the situation.

“Face masks of all types are considered necessities and it is definitely covered by the Consumer Protection Law such as Price Act so the sellers must be mindful of that,” he said.