La Trinidad:Benguet Flower farmers in Benguet have assured consumers of ample supplies for All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day, with both greenhouse and open-field blooms ready for the annual observance.

According to Philippines News Agency, Andy Colti, a flower growers' leader in Benguet and a member of the magsasakang siyentipiko (farmer-scientist) program, stated that greenhouse growers began harvesting their produce last week. He noted an unexpected increase in selling prices compared to previous years, with flowers currently selling for PHP100, PHP150, and PHP200 per bundle of two dozen, depending on the size and variety.

Traders have started visiting farms to purchase flowers directly from growers, indicating strong demand ahead of the observance. Colti mentioned that growers are coordinating with flower truckers to schedule multiple daily deliveries from La Trinidad to ensure a steady supply of freshly harvested blooms to trading hubs.

Farmers are optimistic that imported flowers will not flood the market during Undas, as local growers can now produce large-bloom varieties such as roses, chrysanthemums, and anthuriums using technologies adopted from other countries. However, they do not oppose importing flowers not readily available locally, like orchids.

The La Trinidad municipal government has designated a selling area at the public market for local cut-flower and potted-plant growers, allowing them to sell directly to consumers. Colti encouraged consumers to visit this area to find quality flowers at competitive prices while supporting local farmers.