SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Saturday expressed strong support for the Department of Trade and Industry’s initiative to regulate the prices of school supplies, calling it a much-needed relief for families amid the continued rise in the cost of basic goods.

In a statement, Gatchalian lauded the DTI’s move as a step toward making quality education more accessible to students across the country.

“Amid rising costs of basic commodities, the Department of Trade and Industry’s initiative to regulate school supply prices is a welcome respite for many families striving to secure quality education for their children,” he said.

The senator also called on retailers to strictly adhere to the suggested retail prices (SRPs) released by the DTI, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in easing the burden on Filipino consumers.

“I strongly urge retailers to strictly comply with the suggested retail prices and support the government’s efforts to make education more accessible,” he added.

Gatchalian further urged the DTI to ensure the effective implementation of SRPs nationwide.

“Hinihimok ko rin ang DTI na tiyakin ang maayos na pagpapatupad ng SRP sa buong bansa upang maprotektahan ang interes ng mga mamimili, lalo na ang mga higit na nangangailangan,” he said.

The DTI has yet to release the updated list of SRPs for school supplies ahead of the 2025–2026 school year.

The regulation is expected to help families manage expenses as students prepare for the upcoming academic season.