THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has increased the number of agents deployed in typhoon-affected areas who would monitor the prices of commodities.

Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera said she will increase the number of agents who will be deployed in northern Luzon to make sure that prices of basic and prime commodities remain steady.

She said agents earlier investigated supermarkets, groceries and public markets and apprehended erring establishments.

At least 60 violators were arrested, she said, adding that the agency is finalizing its reports and “may subpoena some more people.”

When asked on the increased prices of vegetables in the local market, Devanadera, said that prices of vegetables might be affected due to the calamity that hit northern Luzon.

“But there is such thing as acceptable prices,” she said.

Press Secretary Cerge M. Remonde said Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap “is now handling the issue and may find solutions to ease the problem.”

He said President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo already directed Public Works and Highways Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane to exert all efforts to ensure that affected roads become passable.

Devanadera said NBI agents were ordered to go after hoarders who would take advantage of the situation.

Remonde, meanwhile, urged the public to monitor the prices of goods in their respective communities and report any irregularities.

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