The Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for pork in National Capital Region wet markets, effective 10 March, to address rising meat prices.

Starting next week, an MSRP of P380 per kilo for liempo and P350 per kilo for kasim and pique will be implemented.

According to Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., the pricing initiative follows consultations with industry stakeholders. “We believe the MSRP will help ensure the sustainability of the pork industry, which continues to suffer from ASF’s adverse effects," he said.

The DA will also impose an MSRP of P300 per kilo for “sabit ulo,” the price at which traders pass pork to retailers.

Meanwhile, pork sold in supermarkets and hypermarkets will be exempt from the MSRP.

Laurel noted that the MSRP will be reviewed after one month to determine whether adjustments will be needed.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary for Livestock Dante Palabrica said industry groups have expressed support the government's efforts to make pork more affordable.

He added that they recognize if prices remain above P400 per kilo, “consumers may shift to imported pork or other protein sources like chicken and fish.”