The Department of Agriculture (DA) has reassured the public that the supply and pricing of local red onions will remain stable as the harvest season approaches. This announcement was made by DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa on Tuesday, addressing concerns about dwindling local stock, which the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) predicted would be depleted by February 1.
De Mesa explained that the onions harvested last year and stored in cold storage facilities are expected to last until January or February. As of January 17, the inventory of local red onions stood at 8,494.99 metric tons. He emphasized that the timing of the harvest is crucial, as the current stocks are nearing depletion just as the new harvest is expected to arrive.
The peak harvest season for local red onions, which runs from January to March, should prevent any significant price increases. Currently, in Metro Manila, red onion prices range from PHP100 to PHP180 per kilogram, according to the DA’s Price Watch.