Agri dept: PH has sufficient chicken, pork supply despite El Niño threat

MANILA — Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. assured the public that there is enough food supply in the country despite the looming impact of El Niño on crops and livestock.

During the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Expo in Pasay City on Thursday, Tiu Laurel said there are 125 days of chicken supply.

“Medyo healthy ‘yon,” he told reporters.

“Normally, pag mainit, bababa talaga production ng manok but with the 125 days supply, continuous naman narereplenish; bumaba man konti to 70, 80, 90 safe pa naman yon,” he added.

For pork, he said there are 170 days of pork supply. 

Meanwhile, rice supply remains unaffected for now, Tiu Laurel said, after the “habagat” (southwest monsoon) rains improved water levels in dams.

“Sa El Niño, baka may effect sa bigas later pa, kasi napuno ngayon lahat ng dam natin, lalo na sa Luzon, dahil sa habagat. Ang effect sa bigas natin by next year pa if ever,” the agriculture chief said.

However, corn crops have been affected, especially in Isabela, Tiu Laurel said.

“Kaya tumaas ang presyo ng corn, may corn alternative naman, may alternative naman dyan, nag-increase tayo ng minimum access volume for imported corn at lower tariff para ma-address yon,” he said.

Tiu Laurel said the Kadiwa ng Pangulo branches could help consumers find cheaper food alternatives where prices are more affordable compared to markets. The government’s P20 per kilo rice is also available.