The Department of Agriculture (DA) is evaluating the possibility of implementing a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for essential food commodities, with garlic and eggs under consideration.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that while discussions regarding a price ceiling for imported garlic have been ongoing, the agency’s current priority remains stabilizing the cost of rice and pork. As a result, any immediate price regulation for garlic has been placed on hold.
Market Trends Impacting Garlic Prices
The proposal to regulate garlic prices surfaced when its market value spiked to P160 per kilogram, nearly double the estimated P80 per kilogram landed cost of imported garlic. However, as prices have recently dropped to around P100 per kilogram, the urgency for immediate price control has diminished.
“Given that garlic prices have declined to P100 per kilogram, we decided to hold off on enforcing an MSRP for now. This price level is relatively fair considering the landed cost of P80,” said Tiu Laurel. “However, if we see another sharp increase, we will reconsider implementing price control measures.”
The Philippines heavily relies on imported garlic, with approximately 95% of its supply coming from foreign sources.
Monitoring Egg Prices Amid Market Pressures
Aside from garlic, the Agriculture Department is also keeping a close watch on egg prices to prevent unwarranted increases.
Tiu Laurel noted that multiple factors, including heightened consumer demand driven by election-related spending and increased poultry mortality rates due to rising temperatures, are contributing to price fluctuations.
While some markets have reported egg prices ranging from P10 to P12 per piece, DA monitoring shows that in many areas, prices remain between P6 and P8 per piece.
“We’ve received recommendations to introduce an MSRP on eggs, but, similar to rice and pork, we must first consult industry stakeholders to ensure minimal disruption to market dynamics,” Tiu Laurel added.
Recent Price Adjustments for Essential Goods
The DA has recently revised its price caps on other essential goods to align with global market trends. On March 31, the agency lowered the MSRP for imported rice to P45 per kilogram, down from P49 per kilogram, following a decline in international rice prices.
For pork products, the government has set an MSRP of P380 per kilogram for liempo and P350 per kilogram for kasim and pigue, ensuring fair pricing for consumers while supporting local producers.
The Department of Agriculture continues to assess price movements and remains committed to balancing affordability for consumers with sustainable profit margins for farmers and traders.
