DA expects onion prices to drop to PHP80/kg with incoming imports

The Department of Agriculture (DA) expects retail prices of onions to drop to PHP80 per kg as imported onions from China arrive.

Currently, the prevailing price in Metro Manila is around PHP160 per kg, but DA spokesperson Arnel De Mesa anticipates a significant decrease within two weeks.

As of February 20, the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) reported that only 459.1 MT out of the planned 3,002 MT importation of red onions and 200 MT out of 1,014 MT of white onions have arrived due to delays caused by Chinese New Year holidays.

De Mesa assured there is no hoarding reported, with most cold storage facilities having minimal or no stocks, as confirmed by a nationwide inspection ordered by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

The DA also warned traders against refusing to buy from farmers during the peak harvest season in March and April, emphasizing that prices should not be manipulated through withholding supplies.