Tomato Prices Skyrocket in Nueva Ecija Amid Supply Shortage

Tomato prices in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, have soared due to a significant supply shortage, with prices reaching ₱130 to ₱180 per kilo at the Sangitan Public Market, according to a report from Balitanghali on Monday.

The supply gap has been attributed to agricultural damage caused by the tropical cyclones that hit the Philippines in 2024, severely affecting tomato production.

Metro Manila Impact

The price hike extends beyond Nueva Ecija. In Metro Manila, tomato prices have surged even higher due to added transportation and handling costs. At the Marikina Public Market, tomatoes are now priced at ₱400 per kilo, surpassing the cost of certain pork cuts such as liempo, which ranges from ₱360 to ₱380 per kilo.

Other pork varieties, like ribs, kasim, and chops, are being sold at ₱320 per kilo, further highlighting the steep cost of tomatoes.

Price Monitoring by the DA

The Department of Agriculture (DA) reported that as of January 3, tomato prices ranged from ₱200 to ₱360 per kilo in various markets. Additionally, the DA is monitoring prices of other vegetables and produce:

• Ampalaya: ₱90–₱160
• Sitaw: ₱110–₱140
• Pechay Tagalog: ₱60–₱130
• Kalabasa: ₱35–₱70
• Talong: ₱90–₱160
• Siling Labuyo: ₱600–₱1,000
• White Onion: ₱80–₱180
• Red Onion: ₱100–₱170
• Garlic: ₱130–₱450
• Imported Garlic: ₱130–₱210

The surge in tomato prices underscores the ongoing challenges in the agricultural sector, with supply chain disruptions and weather-related damages impacting both farmers and consumers.