Consumers in Cotabato City are enjoying lower rice prices as fresh supplies from nearby rice-producing provinces flood the city’s mega market.
According to Carmelito Bacus, president of the Grains Retailer Confederation, the price of locally produced rice has dropped significantly, with a 50-kilogram sack now selling for ₱930, down from ₱1,150 just two weeks ago. Similarly, retail prices per kilogram have fallen to ₱45 to ₱49, compared to the previous ₱52 per kilo.
“The abundant supply of local rice is the result of the mass harvest not only in Cotabato province but also in neighboring areas such as Davao del Sur and South Cotabato,” Bacus explained.
Farmers in these provinces completed their harvest in late February and early March, adding a steady flow of supply to public markets. Rice stocks are also coming in from Bukidnon and from the Cotabato towns of Mlang, Tulunan, and Kabacan, where palay was recently harvested.
Bacus assured that the supply of affordable rice would remain steady until the next major harvest in June. “Cheaper rice can now be easily accessed by our consumers since they can buy it anywhere in Cotabato,” he said.
Rice retailers in the city have reported a surge in sales, with Bacus noting that his store is now selling 20 sacks of local rice per day, doubling the previous 10 sacks per day during lean months. He also observed that many consumers, who previously bought rice per kilo, are now opting to buy in bulk.
Meanwhile, imported rice remains expensive, with prices holding at ₱1,250 per sack and ₱55 to ₱57 per kilo at the city’s mega market.
With a stable supply of local rice and declining prices, consumers in Cotabato City can expect more affordable options in the coming months.