MANILA, Philippines β The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported on June 7, 2026, that prices of school supplies remain within suggested retail price ranges, and supply is adequate ahead of the opening of classes. This was based on monitoring conducted by Trade Secretary Maria Cristina Roque, who led inspections at major retail stores in Metro Manila.
According to DTI data, common items such as notebooks, ballpens, and crayons are priced within the suggested retail prices (SRPs) set by the agency. For example, a 80-leaf notebook is priced between PHP 15 and PHP 25, while a pack of 12 crayons costs PHP 30 to PHP 45. The DTI assured the public that there is no shortage of school supplies, with stocks sufficient to meet demand for the upcoming school year.
The DTI also reminded consumers to report any overpricing or hoarding of school supplies to its hotline or through its online portal. The agency has deployed monitoring teams across the country to ensure compliance with price guidelines and to prevent unscrupulous practices.
