CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY(December 28) – Households in Northern Mindanao are expected to benefit from a steady supply of fish beyond the holiday season, helping cushion consumers from sharp price increases as demand normalizes, an industry leader said Friday.
Irene Floro, chairperson of the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said daily fish supply in the region could reach 40 to 50 tons during peak periods and remain sufficient through 2026, supporting price stability for consumers.
“For the holidays, supply is adequate, and beyond that, availability is expected to remain stable,” Floro said, noting that consistent supply helps prevent sudden spikes in market prices.
She added that the Department of Trade and Industry continues to monitor fish prices to protect consumers, especially low-income households that rely on fish as a primary source of protein.
Most tuna and marine products sold in Northern Mindanao come from Zamboanga City and General Santos City, where harvests remain abundant, helping keep supply flowing to public markets in urban and rural areas.
However, Floro said rising transportation and logistics costs still place upward pressure on prices, as traders compete with suppliers from Cebu City and Manila.
She said addressing these costs would be key to ensuring that stable supply translates into affordable fish prices for families, particularly after the holiday season when households manage tighter food budgets.
