By CESAR JOLITO III
Hog raisers in Negros Occidental are gearing up for a potential supply recovery in the coming months as pork demand — and prices — are expected to rise with the onset of the holiday season.
According to the Alliance of Hog Raisers Association of Negros Occidental (AHRANO), the last quarter of the year could bring relief to the local hog industry, which continues to recover from the impact of African swine fever (ASF).
AHRANO President Rick Lauron said that, while raisers are still grappling with high production costs and unstable liveweight prices, the anticipated spike in demand from November to December could help offset earlier losses.
“We are projecting that raisers can recover their profits because of the demand, which will also trigger the prices to increase,” Lauron said following their association’s meeting.
He added that both multiplier and backyard farms are now working closely to boost production ahead of the holidays.
“Our farms are doubling their stocks in preparation for the holiday demand. We’re confident that there will be enough local supply of pork in the province,” Lauron assured.
Price fluctuations continue
Despite the optimistic outlook, Lauron acknowledged that liveweight prices have dropped by P5 to P10 per kilo in recent weeks. Current rates hover between P150 and P160 per kilo — lower than P160 to P165 recorded in previous months.
However, retail market prices remain elevated in many parts of the province.
Based on AHRANO’s monitoring, pork sells for P300 to P320 per kilo in Himamaylan City and Binalbagan, while prices in Bacolod City markets range from P280 to P300 per kilo.
“Prices vary depending on supply and demand in each area,” Lauron explained.
“Sometimes, due to adequate supply, butchers lower their prices just to move their stocks,” he added.
Lauron also pointed out that many hog raisers are still struggling to gain profit because of the high cost of feeds, fuel and other production inputs.
As Negros Occidental continues its recovery from ASF-related losses, Lauron said stakeholders remain focused on stabilizing both production and market conditions to ensure sustainability.
“Our main goal is to maintain balance — enough supply for consumers while ensuring raisers earn fairly,” he said.
The alliance remains hopeful that a stronger market performance during the holiday season will mark the industry’s steady return to profitability./CJ, WDJ