In Davao City, vendors at Bankerohan Public Market are navigating a complex pricing landscape as seafood and rice costs experience mixed movements, driven by higher fuel expenses and variable supply chains. As of April 1, 2026, these factors are creating challenges for both sellers and consumers, with concerns mounting over potential shortages during the upcoming Holy Week period.
Rice Prices Climb Due to Transport Costs
Retail prices for various rice varieties have increased this week, reflecting the impact of rising fuel costs on transportation and deliveries. According to vendor Shooby Magno, per-kilo prices as of April 1, 2026, show notable upticks compared to last week. For instance, Mr. Chow rice rose to ₱60 from ₱58, Jasmine increased to ₱59 from ₱57, and Seven Tonner moved up to ₱59 from ₱57. Other varieties like Banay-Banay climbed to ₱54 from ₱52, Kohaku Yellow reached ₱60 from ₱58, V-160 went to ₱59 from ₱57, and King rice escalated to ₱62 from ₱60. Additionally, Malagkit rose to ₱44 from ₱42, and spotted rice increased to ₱42 from ₱40.
A 31-year-old rice vendor, who chose to remain anonymous, explained that while supply levels remain adequate, the price hikes are directly linked to escalating fuel expenses. "Supply is sufficient; prices have only increased due to the high cost of fuel. We rely on deliveries for our stocks," the vendor stated, highlighting the dependency on transportation networks that are becoming more costly.
Seafood Prices Show Mixed Trends
Seafood prices at the market displayed varied movements, with shrimp costs declining due to improved availability, while fish prices experienced slight increases and fluctuations. Seafood vendor Jay Quinn Jemina, 24, noted that small shrimp dropped to ₱360 per kilo from ₱380, and large shrimp fell to ₱450 from ₱550, attributing this to enhanced supply from General Santos City. Typically, shipments arrive in three boxes, each weighing around 32 kilos, helping to ease prices despite ongoing transport cost pressures.
Jemina added that demand remains steady, with consumers often opting for smaller shrimp due to their affordability. However, fish varieties told a different story. Matambaka ranged from ₱220 to ₱260 per kilo, Moro-Moro varied between ₱180 and ₱230, Bodboron held steady at ₱230, Danggit slipped to ₱350 from ₱360, and Pompano remained at ₱450.
Supply Constraints and Weather Impacts
Fish vendor Jasmine Jaire, 21, pointed out that rough sea conditions have led to fewer fishermen venturing out, reducing the overall catch available in the market. This sentiment was echoed by another vendor, Jenny Martinez, who emphasized that sourcing fish from General Santos City, combined with rising oil prices, is driving up costs. "Prices are rising because our fish are sourced from General Santos City. We all know oil prices are increasing, which is also driving fish prices up," Martinez explained.
Martinez further detailed that her purchase volume decreased from 40 kilos worth ₱4,800 last week to 30 kilos worth ₱3,600 this week, while delivery costs remained at ₱500. This reduction in volume signals a tighter supply, which could exacerbate availability issues if demand spikes in the near future.
Holy Week Demand and Potential Shortages
With Holy Week approaching, vendors are warning of possible shortages as consumer demand for fish and seafood typically surges during this period. Martinez highlighted that market stalls may close temporarily if stocks run low or deliveries are delayed, especially under high-demand scenarios. "Sometimes we close when there is no fish in stock or no delivery arrives, especially when demand is high," she added, underscoring the fragility of the supply chain amid external pressures.
Despite these challenges, essential goods like eggs have maintained stable prices, indicating balanced supply and demand. Vendor Kabunog Lugatob reported that small eggs stayed at ₱180 per tray, medium at ₱200, large at ₱210, extra-large at ₱230, and jumbo at ₱255, providing some relief for consumers.
Overall Market Outlook
While Bankerohan Public Market continues to offer a range of products, vendors caution that seafood, particularly fish, may sell out rapidly during peak periods if supply remains constrained. Factors such as fuel costs, weather conditions, and export sourcing from areas like General Santos City are key drivers behind the current pricing volatility. As the community prepares for Holy Week, monitoring these trends will be crucial for both buyers and sellers navigating the evolving market dynamics.
