Baguio Rice Sellers Keep Prices Steady Despite Rising Fuel Costs
BAGUIO CITY – Rice retailers in Baguio City are working to keep prices stable and maintain sufficient supply despite the continued rise in fuel costs, the local market rice retailers' association said on Wednesday.
John Paul Peralta, the association’s spokesperson, explained that traders are proactively stocking up on rice when prices are still low to cushion the impact of expected fuel-driven price hikes.
He said this strategy allows them to sell rice at earlier, lower prices and avoid immediately passing on additional costs to consumers, while also ensuring that supply remains available for city residents.
Peralta added that many retailers have reduced their profit margins, with some even selling at break-even, to help ease the burden on consumers.
He also noted that the government’s ₱20 per kilogram rice program provides significant relief, particularly for vulnerable sectors, even if its reach is limited.
Meanwhile, personnel from the Department of Agriculture regularly inspect markets to monitor rice prices and quality. These checks, sometimes conducted alongside the Public Order and Safety Division, help prevent overpricing and ensure compliance among retailers.
Peralta reported that since Feb. 28, prices of 25-kilogram rice bags have risen by ₱100 to ₱300. Current market prices range from ₱46 to ₱52 per kilo for regular milled rice, ₱54 to ₱58 for well-milled rice, and ₱60 to ₱65 for imported varieties.
Most of the rice sold in Baguio is sourced from Cagayan Valley, including Isabela and Nueva Vizcaya, as well as parts of Pangasinan.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
