Milkfish, a staple in many Filipino homes, has become scarce in Dagupan City’s Magsaysay Fish Market during the holiday season. Supply shortages have led to price increases of P5 to P10 per kilo. Currently, smaller milkfish are priced at around P115 to P120 per kilo, while larger sizes range from P140 to P160 per kilo. Fish vendor Raquel Quinto noted the reduced supply and attributed the price hikes to the scarcity.
Shopper Gerry Baniqued expressed concerns about further price increases as the holidays approach. However, the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) reassured consumers that there is adequate milkfish supply coming from southern regions, although local preferences still favor local varieties