The Department of Agriculture has cautioned consumers that despite anticipated reductions in fuel costs next week, food prices are unlikely to see immediate relief.
Agriculture spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa explained that while the expected fuel rollbacks may help prevent further increases in market prices, they are not projected to significantly bring costs down.
“Makakatulong para hindi na tumaas pa lalo… pero hindi pa siya ganoon na magdudulot ng significant na pagbaba,” de Mesa said.
He added that prices of meat and other staple goods remain elevated in local markets, with households continuing to feel the impact of previously high fuel expenses that have affected transportation and production costs.
De Mesa also noted that earlier projections suggesting pork prices could reach as high as ₱589 per kilo are now unlikely to materialize, citing improved supply conditions.
“Sa ngayon marami tayong imported [stock]… punong-puno ang cold storages natin. Hindi natin nakikita na aabot sa P589,” he said.
According to the DA, the steady inflow of imported meat and sufficient cold storage supplies have helped stabilize market conditions. While prices remain elevated, authorities say the situation is not expected to worsen significantly in the near term.