Despite rumors of a 30% price hike over the holidays, the Department of Agriculture (DA) highlighted that it had no control over the selling price of lechon, or roast pig. Spokesman Arnel de Mesa, the assistant secretary for agriculture, clarified that the DA’s authority is restricted to guaranteeing a consistent supply of pork.
We no longer have control over lechon because it has already been processed. When purchased and prepared, it resembles ham, which is governed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), De Mesa stated in an interview.
The DA focuses on monitoring farmgate and retail prices of pork in farms and markets. According to their data, pork shoulder is being sold at P290 to P370 per kilo, while pork belly is priced between P330 and P400 per kilo.
De Mesa noted that demand for lechon and ham has risen due to holiday preparations. However, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the DA has no plans to impose a price cap on lechon, as it is considered a luxury item.
Despite recent typhoons, De Mesa assured the public that there is enough supply of agricultural products. “In terms of volume, we have no problem,” he said.
Current monitoring shows that the retail price of whole chicken ranges from P175 to P240 per kilo. Beef rump costs between P410 and P490 per kilo, while beef brisket is priced at P320 to P460 per kilo. Medium-sized eggs are being sold for P6.50 to P8 each.
