By CESAR JOLITO III

Rice prices across the Negros Island Region (NIR) have increased this week, as the Department of Agriculture (DA) attributed the rise to lower production levels and higher fuel costs.

Data from the DA’s regional monitoring as of May 4 show that well-milled imported rice is now priced at an average of P59.75 per kilogram, while well-milled local rice is at P59 per kilogram.

Regular well-milled rice is being sold at around P48.25 per kilo.

These figures reflect a noticeable uptick compared to the previous week, adding pressure on consumers already grappling with elevated food prices.

DA-NIR Executive Director Jose Albert Barrogo said the increase is largely due to a temporary dip in supply, as the harvest for the third cropping season is not expected to begin until May 15.

The gap between harvest cycles has tightened market availability, contributing to the price movement.

Barrogo also pointed to rising petroleum prices as a key factor driving up costs across the supply chain, including transportation and distribution expenses, which are ultimately passed on to consumers.

The DA continues to monitor price trends closely and is expected to assess market conditions further once fresh harvests enter circulation later this month./CJ, WDJ