Despite no shortage in supply, the prices of onions have gone up in Mangaldan, Pangasinan, affecting both sellers and buyers.

As of June 27, red onions cost P120 to P130 per kilo at the Mangaldan Public Market, which is more expensive than the previous P100. The price of white onions also increased to P80 from P60 per kilo.

Vendors say the price hike is not because of lack of supply but due to storage issues.

“Na over-storage na kasi, kaya ganyan na po. Sinasabi namin sa mga bumibili kasi nagtatanong sila. Eh mahal talaga,” Ernesto Aquino, a vendor, said.

Many onions are sprouting while still in storage, making them unsellable at regular prices. Some sellers are forced to raise prices on good stock to cover losses.

Maricar Cabanban, another vendor, said about 10 kilos out of the 40 kilos she bought from the Bagsakan Market were already sprouting.

“’Yung ganyan, mahirap na ibenta. I-repack na lang namin,” she said.

Consumers are now buying less due to higher prices.

“Kalahating kilo lang bilhin namin,” Violeta Embuido, a shopper, said.

“Maliliit lang ang bilhin ko. Isa-isa lang ang iluto namin,” Angelita Catungal, another shopper, added.

According to the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG), the country still has enough onion supply, and there’s no reason for prices to spike. The group said white onions can last until August, while red onions can last until December.

“’Yung puti will last up to August. ’Yung pula up to December,” SINAG chairman Engr. Rosendo So said.