DA enforces stricter pork SRP rules in Metro Manila

The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced stricter enforcement measures for the maximum suggested retail prices (SRP) of pork products in Metro Manila markets starting this week.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. expressed disappointment after inspections revealed non-compliance with SRP guidelines, setting P350 per kilo for pork shoulder and P380 for pork belly.

The DA warned that the government could sell its affordable pork to the public if meat vendors in wet markets do not comply with the set MSRP, as only 39% of retailers have complied so far.

Retailers explained that they still receive their pork from suppliers at a high price, leading some consumers to opt for frozen pork due to affordability concerns.

The DA met with pork producers, transporters, and retailers on March 28 and 31 to discuss these measures, which may involve revoking shipping permits for those violating legal processes, and plans to include non-compliance in the House committee on agriculture and food's investigation.