Manila, Dec. 18 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday issued 32 show-cause orders to retailers as part of intensified market inspections amid rising demand during the Christmas season.

The action followed a joint price and supply monitoring of the DA and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) at the Munoz Public Market in Quezon City.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the agency's commitment to protect consumers from price manipulation during the holidays.

"There will be no letup in our campaign for fair food prices-even, and especially, during the holidays," he said in a statement.

Assistant Secretary Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra added that the show-cause orders serve both to gather explanation...