With the New Year fast approaching, prices of bangus, or milkfish, in Dagupan City have increased with larger sizes now costing up to P190 per kilo, a P20 hike from previous days.

“Sa ngayon, nasa P190 ang malalaki. Noong nakaraang araw, nasa P170 lang. So P20 ang itinaas,” Dennis Disipulo, a bangus seller, said.

At the Magsaysay Fish Market, Lyn Quizmundo opted for smaller-sized bangus due to the higher prices.

“Mas okay noong nakaraang mga araw. Medyo mataas ang presyo ngayon,” she said.

The Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) assured the public of sufficient supply despite the surge in demand.

“Kausap natin ang mga bangus farmer, tuloy-tuloy ang production natin, walang problema,” SINAG Chairman Engr. Rosendo So said.

Market officials noted a 30 to 40 percent increase in buyers compared to usual days, pushing demand and prices higher.

They predict further price hikes in the coming days, but assured that rates will not exceed P230 per kilo.