Manila warns people selling anti-dust masks expensively

January 13, 2020

The city government of Manila warned individuals who are allegedly selling anti-dust masks at higher prices.

According to Manila Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan, there were reports of overpriced N95 masks being sold. From its usual retail price of P25, some people are selling masks for P200 per piece. 

Demands for surgical masks and the N95 mask, said to be more effective in preventing dust particles to enter the nasal cavity,  increased due to continuous ash fall from the Taal Volcano eruption. 

Lacuna-Pangan ordered the Manila Bureau of Permits and Manila Licenses Office to investigate establishments selling N95 masks. 

"Let's not take advantage of the situation. Please remember that (ashes) is dangerous for our health," she said.

"I don't want to see someone with asthma being rushed to the hospital because he can't afford to buy or find a mask," she added.  Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS