Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) is considering the sale of cheaper pork as an alternative option for consumers amid rising retail prices. This initiative mirrors the department's earlier efforts with the Rice for All (RFA) program, which provides more affordable rice options through Kadiwa Centers and kiosks in public markets, as well as select MRT and LRT stations in Metro Manila.

According to Philippines News Agency, DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa announced in an interview on Monday that the department is exploring the possibility of intervening in the pork market. However, specific details, such as the target price and sale locations for pork, have yet to be finalized.

As of February 14, pork prices in Metro Manila remain high, with pork liempo (belly) priced between PHP380 and PHP480 per kilogram and pork kasim (ham) between PHP350 and PHP420 per kilogram, based on data from the DA-Bantay Presyo (price watch). In addition to pork, the DA is also examining the potential sale of more affordable chicken.

De Mesa mentioned that the DA is likely to introduce a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for pork by March, following the results of an initial study on the rising pork prices in the country. He expressed optimism about local markets' compliance with the MSRP, emphasizing the importance of consultation and awareness among stakeholders.

The study includes an assessment of the 'reasonable' markup or profit margin from farmgate to retail prices across the entire value chain. Recently, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that any retail pork price above PHP400 per kilogram is deemed 'unreasonable.'