Prices of galunggong (round scad) and other pelagic fish are expected to drop by 30% thanks to the start of the open fishing season in Palawan, a major source for Luzon. This follows a three-month closed season aimed at fish stock conservation.
Local galunggong currently sits at P200-P330 per kilo, while imported options range from P180-P260. The drop is expected to be significant, offering more affordable fish for consumers.
Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture (DA) continues to support farmers affected by the ongoing El Niño. The Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. allocated P1.8 billion, and the DA itself earmarked P500 million for assistance. The El Niño’s peak is expected in February-March, with effects gradually decreasing in April.
While El Niño caused P109.4 million in crop damage, the agriculture and fisheries sector still saw a 0.7% growth in the last quarter of 2023, bringing the full-year production up by the same margin.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 6, 2024
