DA invites more hog farms for cheaper pork program

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has invited more hog farms to join FTI's successful pilot program for cheaper pork sales, which began on March 31.

FTI President Joseph Lo assured that participating farms will receive timely payment and the DA aims to complete a cost-tracking system by May to monitor the movement of hogs from farms to retailers.

Under the program, pork prices are at least PHP20 per kg lower than the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP), thanks to direct supply from Thailand's Charoen Pokphand Foods PLC.

Since launching on March 31, FTI has handled over 2,000 pigs, helping to reduce pork prices in local markets and distributing pork directly from a Caloocan slaughterhouse to retailers.

The DA warned pork producers and retailers to comply with the MSRP to avoid facing penalties, stating that compliance remains at about 20% in inspected markets.