The retail price of tomatoes in Metro Manila markets has skyrocketed to P360 per kilo, the Department of Agriculture (DA) reported. This makes tomatoes more expensive than chicken, which is priced at P240 per kilo, and almost as costly as pork shoulder at P390 per kilo.
According to a PhilStar report citing the DA, the sharp increase is attributed to the damage caused by recent typhoons. A medium-sized tomato now costs at least P20, highlighting the surge in prices.
Other agricultural products have also seen significant price hikes. Siling labuyo, or wild chili, has reached P1,000 per kilo, up from P900 a few days ago. Highland vegetables like carrots and cauliflower are now priced at P300 per kilo, while bell peppers are selling for as much as P900 per kilo.
Staples such as onions and garlic have also become pricier, with local red onions at P170 per kilo, imported garlic at P210, and ginger reaching up to P260 per kilo. Meanwhile, medium-sized eggs are sold at P7.80 to P9 per piece.
The DA continues to monitor the situation as consumers face rising costs for basic food items.
