The Department of Agriculture (DA) is exploring new supply options as the price of siling labuyo continues to skyrocket, reaching as high as ₱800 per kilo in Metro Manila, based on DA’s Bantay Presyo report as of September 3.
The surge marks a sharp increase from ₱550 per kilo on August 15 and ₱350 per kilo on July 25. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the department is working to secure additional sources of chili supply to stabilize prices.
“Maybe… but wala rin supply masyado. We are looking at supply options,” Laurel said when asked if cheaper chili could soon be available at Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) outlets.
According to DA, continuous rains and floods caused by successive weather disturbances have severely affected chili production, creating a “supply gap” in major producing regions. Reduced planting in Ilocos and Central Luzon, coupled with persistent rainfall in Bicol, has led to lower yields and tighter supply.
A DA report highlights the need for investments in protected cultivation technologies, such as greenhouses, rain shelters, improved drainage systems, and better crop scheduling to address recurring supply shortages.
Agriculture spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa also emphasized the importance of research and development (R&D) to boost off-season chili production.
“Malaki ang maitutulong ng R&D, especially sa off-season planting ng sili and other solanaceous crops na very vulnerable during tag-ulan,” de Mesa said.
As of September 3, chili prices in the National Capital Region ranged from ₱400 to ₱800 per kilo, with a prevailing price of ₱700 per kilo. The DA is now considering expanding planting areas to less rain-prone regions in Mindanao and Visayas to ensure a more stable supply and meet growing consumer demand, especially during the “ber” months.