Flower sellers in Pangasinan and Baguio City are now working around the clock and raising prices as Valentine’s Day approaches, driven by strong demand and tight supplies blooms grown locally.

In Mangaldan, Pangasinan, vendors said they began accepting orders days ahead of February 14 and have extended operating hours to meet demand.

“Kinakailangan talaga para may maibenta na kami kinabukasan, kasi marami na talaga ang order,” Josie Ocoma, a flower vendor, said.

Prices of popular flowers have climbed steadily. Roses are now selling at about P120 per stem, while sunflowers range from P200 to P250 per stem. Imported flowers such as stargazers cost as much as P400 to P500 per stem, as local supply remains limited.

Traders said imported flowers helped fill the gap, but at higher prices.

“Ito na lang ang bilhin kasi bundle na siya. Kung mag per piece sila, mas mahal ang isang piraso. Ngayon nasa 200 na,” Rocelle de Vera, another vendor, said.

Despite rising prices, buyers said they are still willing to spend for Valentine’s gifts.

“Mahalaga dahil siyempre mahal mo naman ang pagbibigyan,” Rey Carbonel, a shopper, said.

In Baguio City, flower prices have also increased as demand picks up, although vendors said supplies remain adequate. Roses sell for P100 to P150 per stem, while flower bouquets range from P250 to as high as P5,000, depending on size and arrangement.

Vendors in both areas said prices are expected to remain high through Valentine’s Day, as demand peaks traditionally during the holiday.