The Department of Agriculture (DA) is preparing to reimpose a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) on pork starting December 5, aiming to curb holiday price spikes.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the proposed price ceilings: ₱370/kg for liempo and ₱350/kg for kasim and pigue.
The policy was first enforced in March but lifted in May amid tight supply caused by last year’s ASF surge. Current Metro Manila prices show mixed levels—pork ham at ₱355/kg, pork belly at ₱380/kg, and frozen cuts priced lower.
At the same time, the DA is set to issue an import ban on Spanish pork after confirmed ASF cases there. A European Union veterinary task force is now in Barcelona as Spain reported nine infected wild boars.
“Anything produced in Spain after Nov. 11 onwards will not be allowed until ma-clear sila sa ASF,” Tiu Laurel said.
The DA chief expects minimal impact on local supply and stable prices through the holidays.
“I think this Christmas season, medyo reasonable ang price ng pork. Siyempre sa demand baka tumaas nang konti pero more or less affordable naman,” he added.