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Prices of essential food items in the Bicol region remained steady despite concerns over rising fuel costs linked to the global oil situation.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the region reported that there had been no unusual price surges in major public markets based on its latest monitoring.
Regional information officer Lovella Guarin said the agency’s price tracking data as of March 27 showed stable retail rates across key commodities.
She said they have not yet observed any significant increase or movement in the prices of goods.
Rice prices varied depending on location, with well-milled local rice ranging from about Php 42 to Php 54 per kilo, with lower prices recorded in some cities and higher levels in others.
Meat and poultry prices also remained within expected ranges, with pork belly sold between Php 300 and Php 350 per kilo, while whole chicken was priced from Php 195 to Php 230 per kilo.
Fish products showed little fluctuation, as tilapia sold for around Php 160 to Php 200 per kilo, while galunggong was priced at about Php 200 to Php 240 per kilo in areas where data was available.
The agriculture department said it continues to monitor market conditions, noting that fuel costs could eventually affect transportation and distribution, which may influence prices in the coming weeks.