Despite hike in the price of “lechon baboy” (roast pig) in Talisay City, Cebu five days to Christmas, the item continues to sell vigorously.

Occasions, such as Christmas Day, are incomplete without the star of the party table --- the “lechon,” also referred to as “inasal.”

Demand has started to go up in November 2024, so has the price. However, "lechoneros" and "lechoneras" have never run out of orders.

A vendor at the Lechon Park in Talisay City, home to the Halad Inasal Festival, said that they have already placed a cap in accepting orders.

Beginning in November 2024, they have already received over a hundred orders for "lechon" until the New Year.

As prices are pegged on the demand, the cheapest "lechon baboy," as of posting time, costs P8,000 compared to P7,000 only in October 2024.

For "lechon" on retail, the price per kilo remains at P800.

Jean Layon, a retailer, said that people on tight budget – and those who prefer small servings just to satisfy cravings - purchase a few kilos only.

She said she would sell about two whole roast pigs a day at Lechon Park.

One of her customers who prefer to buy a few kilos, for take-out, is Annabelle Mangubat from Medellin town, northern Cebu.

Cebu has earned a reputation for having the most tasty "lechon" of all time, however the Talisay City Health Office has reminded the public to eat moderately in order to stay fit and prepared for the New Year.