ILOILO CITY — Increased hog and chicken production has helped ensure sufficient meat supply in Iloilo, with the higher availability of pork possibly contributing to lower prices. The Philippine Statistics Authority reported the development on September 11, 2026.
A Significant Boost in Local Production
PSA Iloilo Chief Statistical Specialist Jerry Dolutan said the province's hog production rose 34.66 percent in the second quarter to 7,434.15 metric tons from 4,857.49 metric tons in the same period in 2025. Chicken production also increased 4.26 percent to 15,634.08 metric tons from 14,968 metric tons last year.
Dolutan emphasized that this is good news for consumers. He said when prices are lower, the purchasing power of the peso is higher. The increased supply allows households to stretch their daily budgets further, freeing up income for other essential expenses like utilities and education.
Lower Prices and Negative Inflation
The increased meat supply coincided with lower prices in August. Meat and other food products recorded a negative 3.7 percent inflation rate in Iloilo province and negative 4.5 percent in Iloilo City, according to PSA data. These figures indicate that prices for these commodities actually decreased during the period.
For local livestock farmers, the strong production figures reflect a significant recovery. Producing over 7,400 metric tons of hog output in a single quarter demonstrates the resilience of local raisers and agricultural supply chains. The rebound supports livelihoods across the province and strengthens the rural economy.
Fisheries Sector Faces Challenges
While the meat sector thrives, fisheries production declined sharply during the same period. Fishery output fell 33.17 percent to 9,780.69 metric tons in the second quarter from 13,024.54 metric tons in the same quarter last year.
Dolutan attributed the decline partly to inclement weather and higher fuel prices. These factors may have prevented fishers from going out to sea. The reduced catch has driven seafood prices higher, with fish and other seafood recording 1.7 percent inflation in the province in August.
Seafood Prices Remain Volatile
In Iloilo City, however, inflation for seafood rose to 8.2 percent from 6.3 percent. The discrepancy highlights the uneven impact of supply constraints across different areas. Consumers in the city face higher costs for fish and other marine products compared to those in the province.
The abundant pork and poultry supply offers families an accessible alternative to expensive seafood. This substitution effect helps mitigate the overall impact of rising seafood prices on household budgets. The availability of affordable protein sources remains critical for food security.
Implications for Households and the Economy
The surge in hog and chicken production provides immediate economic relief to Ilonggo households. Lower meat prices mean families can afford more nutritious meals without exceeding their budgets. This contributes to improved nutrition and overall well-being.
The development also signals a robust local agricultural sector capable of meeting demand. Continued support for farmers and fishers will be essential to sustain this momentum. Addressing the challenges in the fisheries sector requires coordinated efforts to improve weather resilience and manage fuel costs.
