The supply of pigs at a slaughterhouse in Mangaldan, Pangasinan has dropped by nearly 50 percent, causing prices of pork to increase in local markets.

From 80 pigs butchered daily, the number has now fallen to around 30 to 40.

This is due to lower hog imports from other provinces and stricter inspections to prevent another African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak.

“Kapag may mga patsi-patsi, inoobserbahan talaga namin, tinitingnan namin ang mga papers kung ASF-free. At saka karamihan kasi ng kinakatay, hindi galing dito sa Pangasinan, sa ibang lugar nanggagaling,” Dr. Wilino Zacarias, Mangaldan Municipal Veterinarian, said.

With fewer pigs available, pork prices have risen to P400 to P420 per kilo.

Zenaida Biay, a market vendor, said sales have slowed down.

“Kakaunti ang baboy ngayon, mahirap pa ang bentahan,” she said.

Consumers are also struggling with the price hike.

“May kataasan ang presyo kumpara noong mga nakaraan. Kung tataas pa, naku, baka kalahating kilo na lang mabili namin,” Lalaine Lagman, a buyer, said.