DA Cracks Down on Onion Profiteering Ahead of Holidays
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced a significant move to protect consumers, revealing plans to establish a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported red onions. This new measure is set to take effect on December 1, directly addressing growing concerns over excessive market profiteering as the holiday season approaches.
Unjustified Price Hikes Prompt Government Action
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel explained the rationale behind the decision, pointing out a stark discrepancy between cost and retail price. He revealed that the landed cost for imported red onions is a reasonable PHP60 per kilogram. Based on this figure, he asserted that the selling price should logically not exceed PHP120 per kilogram.
However, the reality in the markets has been starkly different. "Selling at PHP250 to PHP300 is clearly profiteering," Secretary Tiu Laurel stated emphatically during an ambush interview. Data as of November 26 confirmed his concerns, showing that imported red onions were being sold for between PHP200 and PHP300 per kilogram, with a prevailing market price of PHP240. During the same period, local onions were priced even higher, ranging from PHP250 to PHP330 per kilogram.
Stricter Monitoring and Potential Penalties
To enforce the new price ceiling, the DA is not stopping at just setting an MSRP. The agency plans to roll out a comprehensive strategy that includes stricter monitoring and supply tracing. This initiative aims to identify the specific sources and actors responsible for the inflated prices that burden Filipino consumers.
Furthermore, the department is exploring the implementation of penalties under the Price Act, and is coordinating these efforts with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The official MSRP is expected to be formally issued by Monday, giving the market clear guidance.
Secretary Tiu Laurel also made a direct appeal to the public, urging them to be vigilant and proactive. He encouraged consumers not to tolerate unreasonable pricing. "Huwag niyong bilhin, magreklamo kayo, tawaran niyo kasi hindi tama iyon (Don’t buy it, complain, and haggle because it’s not the right price)," he advised, calling on Filipinos to help flag those taking advantage of the situation.
