Flow of goods in Surigao normal -- DTI

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has reported that supply situation in Surigao has remained normal as flow of goods by land from neighboring provinces from Butuan, Cagayan de Oro and Davao have not been affected by the earthquake. DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said that most supermarkets and stores like Parkway mall, Absolute Essential Traders, TT and Company have been operating except Gaisano Mall where some of its walls collapsed. The Lipata ferry terminal though suffered some damages is undergoing assessment. One small municipality San Francisco has been affected because of the collapse of Anaoaon bridge. Since Malacañang has declared a state of calamity in Surigao, Lopez said that a price freeze automatically took effect good for 60 days. To further ensure continued supply of goods and commodities, DTI will hold Diskwento Caravan starting today, Tuesday. Lopez said he will talk to Gaisano to bring out and sell their goods. “We also have livelihood fund for affected microbusinesses and also funding to micro borrowers under the government’s R3 program,” said Lopez. (BCM)