Freshwater Fish Prices Surge, DA Monitors Up to P30 Increase per Kilo

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has reported a significant hike in the prices of freshwater fish, with bangus (milkfish) and tilapia experiencing increases as steep as P30 per kilo. According to the DA’s monitoring, bangus prices have soared from a range of P150 to P220 on January 15 to a peak of P250 per kilo. Concurrently, tilapia prices have escalated, now topping at P170 per kilo, up from the previous P110 to P160 range recorded two weeks prior.

Asis Perez, co-convenor of Tugon Kabuhayan, attributes this price upsurge to the diminished supply of saltwater fish, consequently amplifying the demand for freshwater varieties. He explains that certain lunar phases, notably the full moon, traditionally result in lower saltwater fish catches. This situation provides a window of opportunity for freshwater fish traders to adjust their prices favorably, given the reduced competition in the market.

The price fluctuation isn’t restricted to freshwater species. The local round scad, commonly known as galunggong, is also witnessing a shortage in supply, further exacerbated by the ongoing closed fishing season. This scarcity has inevitably led to a price hike for galunggong, a staple fish variety in many Filipino households.

In light of these developments, the DA has articulated its goal to stabilize bangus prices, aiming to revert them to the more affordable range of P50 to P70 per kilo. As the department continues its vigilant monitoring of fish prices, stakeholders and consumers alike are keenly observing market trends and awaiting the government’s initiatives to address the surge in fish prices.