DA endorses P210/kilo floor price for hogs amid farmgate rate collapse

The Department of Agriculture expressed support Tuesday for a proposed floor price of P210 per kilogram for live hogs, as farmgate rates in several regions have dropped sharply to between P120 and P160 per kilo.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. acknowledged the proposal's merit but cautioned that the department cannot unilaterally implement the pricing mechanism without legislative backing. The statement came as hog producers reported escalating financial pressures from depressed market rates.

The price collapse has intensified concerns among local hog farmers, particularly small and medium-scale operations facing razor-thin margins. Industry stakeholders have intensified calls for government intervention to stabilize the market and prevent further deterioration of farmgate prices.

The DA's conditional backing signals recognition of the hog sector's current difficulties, though implementation of any price support mechanism would require congressional action to establish the legal framework for enforcement. Officials indicated they are exploring alternative support measures available under existing regulations.