In recent weeks, chicken prices in Metro Manila have skyrocketed, reaching an all-time high of P250 per kilogram in public markets as of July 15th. This sudden and substantial increase has sparked concerns among both consumers and experts who are seeking to understand the underlying reasons for this sharp rise in prices.
Why Prices are Going Up
The main reason for the high prices is that local farmers are producing fewer chickens. They've cut back on how many chickens they're raising because they want to recover money they lost in the past. This has caused a shortage of chickens available for sale, which is pushing prices higher.
What Experts are Saying
Jose Gerardo Feliciano, who leads the United Broiler Raisers Association (UBRA), is worried about the situation. He acknowledges that in some places, there really aren't enough chickens available, but he's also concerned that the price of P250 per kilogram might not just be because of supply issues—it could also be because some people are trying to make more money by charging higher prices. Feliciano emphasized the importance of ensuring fair pricing practices to protect consumer interests.
What's Being Done
Despite the challenges posed by the price surge, Feliciano reassured the public that the overall supply of chicken in the country remains adequate. However, he stressed the need for proactive measures to stabilize the market and maintain affordable prices for consumers across Metro Manila. Efforts are underway to encourage increased production and ensure efficient distribution to meet demand effectively.
