Imported rice prices in Negros Oriental fall by P5/kg amid ample supply
DUMAGUETE CITY – The price of imported rice in Negros Oriental has declined by an average of PHP5 per kilogram, according to recent monitoring by the Department of Agriculture–Provincial Agricultural Technology Coordinating Office (DA-PATCO).
DA-PATCO Negros Oriental chief Bernard Limbaga said that as of the last week of March, imported rice prices dropped to around PHP60/kg from PHP65/kg.
He attributed the price decrease to a strong supply of imported rice, noting that traders have brought in large volumes that are now widely available in the local market, particularly in Dumaguete City.
In comparison, locally produced premium rice remains more expensive, averaging about PHP70/kg. Limbaga explained that higher production and transport costs—especially for rice sourced from areas like Isabela and parts of Mindanao—contribute to the price difference.
The decline in imported rice prices comes as the DA considers recommending a price cap of PHP50 per kilogram by the end of the month. The proposal is expected to be submitted by the National Price Coordinating Council to the Office of the President.
Meanwhile, corn supply in the province continues to shrink, with some areas reporting limited availability. Limbaga noted that corn grits, which once sold as low as PHP36/kg before the war, have surged to around PHP57/kg.
With the planting season set to begin in May, corn supply may remain tight until the next harvest.
Negros Oriental currently has a corn sufficiency level of about 35 percent, meaning local production can meet only a portion of demand. Rice sufficiency is slightly higher at 45 percent, prompting continued reliance on supply from other regions.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
