EGG and chicken prices have risen in some markets amid lower supply and an increased demand during the holidays.
Latest data from the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) price monitoring showed current prices of poultry products in Metro Manila stood at P180 to P220 per kilo, higher than its year-on-year price of P145 to P180 per kilo.
According to the United Broiler Raisers Association (UBRA), the increased demand for the produce stemmed from its more affordable pricing compared to pork, which is now at P400 per kilo, and beef which is currently priced at P480 per kilo in Manila.
“Sa tingin namin, itong season lang medyo, dahil kokonti ‘yung nag-alaga ng manok, medyo naubos ‘yung mga inaalagaan. Hindi ganun karami na ‘yung balanse kaya name-maintain ‘yung mataas na presyo hanggang after new year,” said UBRA chairperson Gregorio San Diego Jr.
Likewise, the Philippine Egg Board Association (PEBA) said there was a decreased production of egg products in the county due to the higher operating expenses of breeders following the hike in prices of hatchlings and chicken pellets.
Farmgate prices of medium-sized eggs are at P6.40 to P7 per piece, making its retail price in markets at P8.66 to P9 per piece, the group added.
“Itong magpa-Pasko kasi maraming gumagawa ng cakes, leche flan, tumaas ‘yung demand. Although medyo ilang buwan na ‘yan, hindi naman ganun karami ang supply. ‘Yung iba hindi na makabalik sa pag-aalaga ng paitluging manok kasi wala nang kapital,” said San Diego.
DA has yet to respond as of press time. (GMA Integrated News)
