DA sets P350-P380 MSRP for pork in Metro Manila

Pork retailers have welcomed the government's decision to implement a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for pork as prices continue to rise.

The Department of Agriculture announced on Thursday that it will start implementing the MSRP in Metro Manila wet markets from March 10, setting the price at P350 per kilo for kasim and pigue, and P380 per kilo for liempo.

Retailers report a significant drop in pork sales due to high prices, with consumers shifting towards cheaper alternatives like chicken.

Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa of the Department of Agriculture stated that stakeholders agreed that selling pork above P400 per kilo is unreasonable and unsustainable.

The president of United Vendors Las Piñas Public Market, Manny Pareja, expressed concern over retailers' suffering due to low sales caused by high prices.

The MSRP will be reviewed monthly to assess the need for adjustments, with past success in reducing rice prices cited as a positive indicator.

Assistant Secretary Divina Gracia Del Prado noted that African swine fever continues to affect pork supply but hopes the MSRP can help ease inflation.