By Charissa Luci-Atienza Former Health Secretary and Iloilo Rep. Janette Loreto-Garin warned traders on Wednesday against engaging in unethical profiteering, saying it is "morally unacceptable and legally punishable" to increase the prices of medicines and supplies in times of calamities. Former Department of Health (DOH) Secretary and  Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin (CZAR DANCEL / MANILA BULLETIN) She appealed to business enterprises not to take advantage of the situation and to help ease the plight of Taal eruption victims by selling medicines and supplies at a discounted price. "We appeal to our businessmen not to engage in unethical profiteering. Calamities are sometimes seen by some as an opportunity to profit more, especially in situations where they see captured customers who have no other option but to buy from them," Garin said following reports that the price of face masks in Manila spiked by as high as P200. "Medicines and supplies should even be sold at a discounted price considering that the expense is unexpected. It is morally unacceptable and legally punishable under our existing trade and industry laws to increase prices," she added. The senior deputy minority leader exhorted the public to also run after those who engage in unethical profiteering by reporting them to the authorities. "It is for this reason that we are encouraging the general public to report similar cases to local authorities for their appropriate action," she said. The former health secretary expressed concern that the eruption and the subsequent ash fall in the areas near the Taal Volcano poses "grave health issues." "Prolonged exposure to the ash fall might cause lung problems, eye, and skin irritation. It would be wise to stay indoors if you are in the affected area. Everyone is also encouraged to wear protective gear like masks to prevent volcanic ash inhalation when going outdoors," she said. Garin also urged the public to use social media responsibly and avoid spreading fake news that might cause unnecessary alarm. "To our netizens, let us be cognizant of fake news. Many recent posts proliferate hate and false information. In times like this, let us refer to official pages and accounts of government agencies primarily involved in monitoring the situation like NDRRMC and PHILVOLCS. For announcements on suspension, hit the profile of your respective local government units," she said. "Let us use social media responsibly," she added. The opposition lawmaker also warned against robbery in the areas affected by Taal Volcano's phreatic and magmatic eruptions. "Sa ating mga kababayan, huwag po pagsamantalahan ang mga biktima ng trahedyang ito. Huwag nakawan ang mga biktima ng pagsabog ng bulkan at ng mga lindol," she said. (Let us not take advantage of the victims of this tragedy by not stealing from them.) "Matindi na ang panic ng mga tao, wag na natin itong dagdagan. Ang panic parang abo ng bulkan, mabilis kumalat at nakamamatay kapag pumasok sa iyong sistema," she said. (They have been experiencing intense panic. Let us not add to that. The panic is like volcanic ash, it can spread quickly, and become fatal if it will get into your system.) Garin expressed hope that the “bayanihan” spirit will continue to prevail in these challenging times. "Filipinos, historically, triumphantly overcame challenges through our own unique spirit – bayanihan. We are stronger than any of these calamities for as long as we help each other," she said. "I enjoin every Juan and Maria to rise and be a hero for others. Panahon ngayon para magtulungan. Sabay-sabay tayong aahon. (This is the time to help each other. We will all rise together)," she added.