MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) is closely monitoring pork prices as African Swine Fever (ASF) continues to affect supply chains, with retail prices for liempo reaching up to P430 per kilo in some markets.

DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa explained that the elevated prices are primarily driven by ASF-related supply disruptions, compounded by heightened demand during the recent holiday season.

“This price increase remains largely due to ASF, but we expect a gradual decline in pork prices starting January and February as demand stabilizes,” de Mesa said.

ASF remains a significant challenge for the pork industry, disrupting local hog production and limiting supply. 

While the DA continues implementing control measures to curb the spread of the disease, restoring normal production levels remains an ongoing process.

ASF was first detected in the Philippines in July 2019 in Rizal province.

In 2024, the DA said 32 provinces are still grappling with the ASF virus.

De Mesa said that monitoring and response efforts are in place to ensure stable supply and minimize further price volatility in the pork market.

Market outlook

With the holiday demand cooling down, the DA projects a moderate decrease in pork prices over the coming months. However, industry recovery will still depend on the effectiveness of disease management strategies and sustained efforts to rebuild the hog population.