Bangus, tilapia, galunggong, and other leading fish prices are increasing as holy week approaches.
Since most Filipinos practice fasting and abstinence during the Lenten season, public markets, like the Paco Market prepare for the rising demand as early as Saturday, March 23.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) noted that bangus was valued at P192.6 per kilo last March 18 to 22.
However, Paco Market prices for bangus averaged at around P180 to P200 as sizes vary.
Tilapia cost P141.3 per kilo last week and rose to an average of P130 to P160.
Galunggong’s average price in the fish market on Saturday peaked at P240 per kilo, compared to P193 to P222.6 last week.
Other seafood prices, such as pusit, have reached P360 per kilo depending on the size, while talakitok is at P280 per kilo.
The red snapper or maya-maya is valued at P180 per kilo in the Paco Market.
Recently, DA spokesperson Arnel De Mesa said that fish value will soon have a 10 to 20 percent minimal increase, however, assured that there is still an ample supply of fish.
Aside from seafood, Catholics are also opting for vegetable options during abstinence.
Tomatoes remain at around P60 to P68 per kilo, ampalaya at a P124 per kilo average, and sitaw at P113 per kilo.
Meanwhile, red onions are valued at around P91 to P130 per kilo, while garlic’s average is at P151.76.