Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. defended Executive Order 116, which increases the minimum access volume (MAV) for pork imports, saying it is necessary to stabilize supply and prevent further price hikes.
He said the measure was requested by the Department of Agriculture last year amid rising pork prices and production losses caused by African swine fever, and remains relevant due to ongoing supply risks.
The EO raises pork MAV from 54,210 metric tons to 204,210 metric tons, allowing more imports at lower tariffs to ease inflationary pressure.
Tiu Laurel also warned that the rainy season and the southwest monsoon could worsen African swine fever outbreaks, further affecting local supply.
He assured that implementing rules will balance the interests of consumers, hog raisers, and other stakeholders.
Source: PhilNews24 | June 4, 2026
