By Jen Baylon
The supply of pork in Negros Occidental is adequate for the holiday season, Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) head Dr. Placeda Lemana said, despite two local government units (LGUs) being classified as red zones for African swine fever (ASF).
Lemana said pork supply is well-stocked at local markets in the province, although prices vary significantly across LGUs.
The lowest pork price, at P250 per kilo, is being sold in Toboso town, while pork in Hinigaran town sees prices soar up to P370 per kilo.
This price disparity reflects local supply levels, with demand expected to rise as Christmas and New Year approach, Lemana said.
Meanwhile, Ric Lauron, president of the Alliance of Hog Raisers Association in Negros Occidental, noted that prices may increase slightly due to heightened holiday demand but reassured that the overall supply remains sufficient.
Earlier, the cities of Bacolod and Escalante remained under red zone status for ASF, based on the Bureau of Animal Industry’s updated zoning classifications.
However, Lemana said, no new reports of hog fatalities from ASF have emerged from these areas.
Lemana emphasized ongoing surveillance against the hog disease, as blood sample results confirming ASF-free status are still pending.
To protect Negros Occidental’s P6 billion swine industry, the PVO is actively monitoring airports and seaports to prevent the entry of pork products from ASF-affected regions in Luzon.
Lemana also urged the public to support local hog raisers, highlighting their vital role in sustaining the recovery of the swine industry in the province and promoting local consumption during the holiday season.
No overpricing
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced that so far there are no reported overpricing of noche buena items across the province as the festive season approaches.
Kenneth Villarosa, senior development specialist at DTI-Negros Occidental, said they have been actively monitoring prices from various retailers.
The findings indicate that stores selling noche buena items are adhering to their Noche Buena Price Guide, ensuring that consumers are not being taken advantage of.
While the overall market remains stable, Villarosa mentioned that there has been a slight price increase for certain items, particularly ham, ranging from P1 to P30.
This minor increase is not uncommon during the holiday season as demand rises.
Villarosa noted that items sold in smaller retail outlets or sari-sari stores often come with higher markups compared to larger supermarkets.
Earlier, the DTI released its Noche Buena Price Guide, detailing suggested retail prices for a variety of noche buena staples, such as ham, queso de bola, fruit cocktail, cheese, sandwich spread, all-purpose cream, mayonnaise, pasta, macaroni, tomato sauce, and spaghetti sauce.
The price guide, effective until December 31, aims to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions./JB, WDJ