Rice and Egg Prices Climb in Davao Region as Fuel Costs Surge
The Department of Agriculture-Davao Region (DA-Davao) has confirmed a notable increase in the prices of several staple goods, including specific rice varieties and eggs, while simultaneously reassuring the public about the stability of rice supplies in the area. This development comes amid escalating fuel costs linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which is impacting logistical expenses across the supply chain.
Price Adjustments and Supply Assurance
According to recent market observations, the costs of Pandan rice and V-160 King rice have risen, alongside a ₱0.50 per piece increase for small and medium-sized eggs. Macario “Bong” D. Gonzaga, the regional director of DA-Davao, addressed these concerns in a media interview on Tuesday, March 25, 2026, at the Sangguniang Panlungsod. He emphasized that the region's rice supply remains robust due to sufficient importation and ongoing local harvests.
Gonzaga detailed that rice imports have reached 104 metric tons, complementing production from approximately 59,000 hectares of rice farmland in the region. He estimated that this would provide a 60-day buffer stock from the National Food Authority (NFA), ensuring adequate availability. However, he acknowledged that prices might see adjustments, potentially increasing by around P5 over the next three months, driven primarily by rising fuel expenses affecting logistics.
Fuel Subsidy Initiative for Agricultural Workers
In response to the mounting fuel costs, DA-Davao is implementing a support program for local farmers and fisherfolk. The department plans to distribute a P5,000 fuel subsidy to each registered individual to help offset their operational expenses and augment income. Gonzaga stated that they are currently finalizing the master list for this assistance, aiming to disburse the subsidies within March 2026.
The region has approximately 396,397 registered farmers and 114,810 fisherfolk eligible for this aid. Many already possess monitoring cards where the subsidy funds will be credited, streamlining the process. This initiative is part of broader efforts to mitigate the economic strain caused by global oil price fluctuations.
Monitoring of Basic Goods and Price Controls
Beyond rice and eggs, Gonzaga noted that the Davao region maintains sufficient supplies of chicken and pork. However, he warned that if the Middle East crisis persists, prices for these products, as well as for spices and vegetables, are likely to increase gradually due to heightened logistical costs. The department is actively monitoring sellers and retailers to prevent exploitative practices such as hoarding or profiteering.
DA-Davao participates in the Davao City Price Monitoring Council and the Task Force on Price Monitoring, led by the City Mayor’s Office at the local level and by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regionally. Gonzaga clarified that while DA monitors prices daily with personnel across the region, it does not have direct control over pricing, as that authority rests with businesses and the monitoring councils, which can intervene in cases of unfair practices.
He reiterated the department's commitment to vigilant oversight, ensuring that market adjustments remain transparent and justified, without compromising supply stability for essential commodities.
