Pork Prices Drop, Chicken Prices Rise Amid ASF Outbreak

Public market prices for pork and chicken have fluctuated in response to the ongoing spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) in several provinces.

As reported on “24 Oras Weekend” by Bernadette Reyes, pork vendors have begun lowering their prices. The Department of Agriculture’s monitoring shows the price of liempo at P305 per kilogram, with kasim dropping by P10 per kilogram.

On the other hand, the prices of chicken and eggs have risen as consumers shift to alternative protein sources. “No choice but chicken or beef because the health of your family is at stake with pork. So, we’ll avoid pork for now,” said one customer.

Chicken retailer Rosana Torla confirmed the price increase, stating, “Prices have increased compared to the previous month. It is P220 for whole chicken. Choice cuts are priced at P240 to P250.”

The ASF outbreak has significantly impacted the national hog population, which has declined from 12.7 million in 2019 to an estimated 9.9 million by the end of 2023. ASF has spread across all 17 regions of the Philippines, affecting 74 provinces. As of August 8, active ASF cases were reported in 64 municipalities across 22 provinces.

In response, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has allocated P2 billion for a swine repopulation program that is currently being implemented. DA Assistant Secretary for Swine and Poultry Constante Palabrica reassured the public that infected pork products would not reach markets. “The National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) is strict. If you pass through there, you will get a stamp from NMIS, ensuring that the meat is clean and uninfected,” Palabrica said