Manila: Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday assured ‘tactical’ importation of onions as the country approaches peak harvest season of local onions. Tiu Laurel made this remark after some agricultural groups expressed dismay over the DA’s approval of the importation of 3,000 metric tons (MT) of red onions and 1,000 MT of white onions in February.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel emphasized the strategic nature of the importation, describing it as a limited measure in terms of volume, quality, and duration that aims to counter potential price spikes. He referenced the record PHP720/kg retail price of onions in 2022 as a cautionary benchmark. Based on data from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), the authorized 4,000 MT import volume falls short of the reported monthly deficit of 7,000 MT.

The imports are scheduled to arrive in the country within the third to fourth week of February, aligning with the ongoing harvest timeline of local producers. Tiu Laurel noted that Nueva Ecija onion producers anticipate a full harvest around the third week of March extending into April 2025. This adjusted importation strategy is deemed necessary to stabilize the market and prevent price surges.

The current market situation shows local red onion prices in Metro Manila ranging from PHP130 to PHP200/kg, while white onions are priced between PHP120 to PHP140/kg. These figures are monitored by the DA Bantay Presyo (price watch). As of January 31, the BPI reported stock inventories of 2,325.86 MT for red onions and 631.45 MT for white onions, which are considerably lower than the nation’s monthly consumption rates of 17,000 MT for red onions and 4,000 MT for white onions.