The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has some good news for Filipino households—fish prices are expected to remain stable this summer!
Why Fish Supply Will Be Steady
According to BFAR spokesperson Nazario Briguera, summer is a great season for fishing. “Kapag summer, maganda ang huli ng ating mga mangingisda,” he shared in an interview with Dobol B TV. This means that fishermen will have a good catch, ensuring a strong supply of fish in local markets. And when supply is high, prices remain stable.
Even better, the country’s major fishing grounds—Zamboanga Peninsula, Palawan, Visayan Sea, and Davao Gulf—have reopened after being closed for a few months for conservation efforts. Now, fishermen can go back to catching important fish species like galunggong (round scad) and sardines, increasing availability and helping control prices.
Price Updates & Expected Changes
As of March 10, fresh galunggong is selling for around ₱300 per kilo, but with the fishing ban lifted in Palawan, BFAR expects prices to drop further.
Fish Imports to Help Keep Prices Down
To prevent fish prices from spiking, the Department of Agriculture has also approved importing fish varieties not commonly found in local markets, like salmon. According to Briguera, this move is not meant to compete with local fishermen but to give consumers more choices while keeping inflation in check.
Government Support for Fishermen
BFAR is also helping fishermen manage high fuel costs by providing fuel subsidies for those operating in municipal waters. This support helps keep operational costs low, so fish prices remain affordable for consumers.
Bottom Line? No Fish Price Hikes!
With strong fish supply, reopened fishing areas, and government support, BFAR assures the public that fish prices will remain stable this summer. So, seafood lovers can enjoy their favorite dishes without worrying about sudden price increases!