DA to impose MSRP for pork in Metro Manila on March 10, 2025

The Department of Agriculture (DA) will set a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for pork in wet markets in the National Capital Region starting March 10, in a bid to lower prices.

"Starting March 10, we will set an MSRP of P380 per kilo for liempo and P350 per kilo for kasim and pigue," Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a statement Thursday. 

An MSRP of P300 per kilo will also take effect for pork that traders sell to retailers.

However, pork sold on supermarkets and hypermarkets are exempted from the MSRP as it has higher operating costs.

According to DA, the MSRP was imposed in response to the challenges that the pork industry is facing, particularly the effects of African Swine Fever (ASF).

"This decision was made after consultations with industry stakeholders—from producers to wholesalers, traders, and retailers. We believe the MSRP will help ensure the sustainability of the pork industry, which continues to suffer from ASF’s adverse effects" Tiu Laurel said.

He added that the MSRP will be reviewed after one month to asses if adjustments are needed.

Agricultural groups such as the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura, ProPork, and National Federation of Hog Farmers Inc., have expressed support for the MSRP. 

The DA is also looking to implement a “Pork-For-All” program in Kadiwa outlets and some markets in which it will directly buy pork from importers and traders to sell at a cheaper price, like the implemented “Rice-For-All” program.

The ASF outbreak caused the loss of millions of pigs and threatened farmers’ livelihood. 

In Vintar, Ilocos Norte, authorities culled 300 pigs after some tested positive for ASF. 

In August 2024, the DA -Bureau of Animal Industry began trials for an ASF vaccine to combat the spread of the animal disease. — Mariel Celine Serquiña/BM, GMA Integrated News