Galunggong price drops before expected Holy Week increase

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April 12, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The retail price of galunggong or round scad has dropped just days before the anticipated price hike during Holy Week, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Agriculture spokesman Arnel de Mesa said the DA recorded a P60-per-kilo decrease in the prevailing price of galunggong, which now sells for P240 per kilo, compared to P300 per kilo last month.

“The retail price of galunggong even decreased compared to the same period last year,” he added, noting that the retail prices of other fish varieties have remained stable.

Based on DA’s monitoring of Metro Manila markets, the prevailing price of tilapia remains at P160 per kilo, while bangus or milkfish is priced at P240 per kilo.

Price movement is expected next week, particularly from Maundy Thursday to Good Friday, according to the DA.

“The increase may last for three to five days. By Black Saturday and Easter Sunday, we expect normal consumption (of pork), especially on Sunday when it is considered in Roman Catholicism as the second most important festivity,” De Mesa said.

Fish prices typically increase by 15 to 30 percent during Holy Week, as many Catholics abstain from meat products.