STREET FOOD VENDORS FEEL IMPACT OF MIDEAST WAR

Soaring liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices driven by the Middle East conflict are hurting street food vendors in the Philippines, forcing many to raise prices or reduce operating costs just to stay afloat.

Vendors like those selling “pares” and snacks report shrinking profits and fewer customers as households cut spending or bring packed meals instead of buying food outside.

An 11-kilo LPG tank that once cost about ₱870 has now surged to around ₱1,600, significantly raising daily operating expenses.

Despite some vendors increasing prices, many say they risk losing customers to competitors if they do so.

As inflation rises, lawmakers are urging the government to prepare for a potential food crisis following the ongoing global oil shock.

Source: PhilNews24 | April 13, 2026