The Department of Agriculture (DA) has initiated an investigation into the escalating prices of pork across local markets, aiming to curb potential profiteering. DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. highlighted the issue during a recent interview, drawing parallels to the rice price situation. He mentioned that the DA is actively analyzing the pork value chain to find ways to moderate the price surge.
Over the past two weeks, the DA has been closely monitoring pork prices. As of January 22, 2025, in Metro Manila, pork belly prices ranged from PHP360 to PHP480 per kilogram, while pork ham (kasim) was priced between PHP340 and PHP400 per kilogram. These figures are notably higher than those for frozen pork, with frozen liempo costing between PHP270 and PHP350 per kilogram, and frozen kasim between PHP230 and PHP280 per kilogram.
Secretary Tiu Laurel expressed confusion over consumer preferences for more expensive fresh pork over cheaper frozen alternatives, especially when the end use, such as frying, remains the same. He also noted that the farmgate price for local pork is significantly lower, ranging from PHP220 to PHP240 per kilogram.
The DA anticipates needing another two weeks to complete their assessment of the pork price spike. They attribute the increase to post-holiday demand and the impact of African swine fever (ASF) on local production. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) reported a significant rise in pork imports from January to November 2024, totaling 672,000 metric tons, an increase of nearly 80,000 metric tons compared to the previous year.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has called for a broader strategy to tackle the rising prices of all farm commodities. He emphasized the need for a coordinated effort involving multiple government agencies to address supply chain inefficiencies, including smuggling and hoarding. Gatchalian stressed the importance of supporting local farmers to enhance production and stabilize prices, stating that sufficient harvests and production are key to managing high commodity prices for the benefit of consumers.