SEN. Bong Go urged traders to avoid hoarding and overpricing that could further burden consumers as a fuel crisis becomes imminent due to rising tensions in the Middle East.
Go issued the appeal on Friday as food prices reportedly began increasing in several public markets ahead of major fuel price adjustments.
At the Bulungan Seafood Market, the per-kilo price of lapulapu rose from P300 to P400, while bakoko increased from P250 to P400 per kilogram (kg). Similar developments were observed at Balintawak Market, where the price of a container of fish reportedly went up by P500.
Go said that while higher fuel costs may affect the transport of goods, some traders may take advantage of the situation by prematurely raising prices or manipulating supply — practices that ultimately hurt ordinary consumers.
“In times like these, we need to work together. Let’s not take advantage of the situation to make a lot of money while our people are struggling,” Go said. “Every peso, every cent is important, especially for families with low incomes.”
The senator reiterated his long-standing stance against hoarding and supply manipulation, which he said contribute to price instability in the market.
“As a member of the Committee on Agriculture, we must do two things. First, we must fight and go against hoarders and smugglers. Smugglers should not benefit from this,” he said in a previous interview.
Some vendors have reportedly started selling fish in bundles instead of by the kilo so that customers can still afford them.
Meanwhile, vegetable prices have also increased in some markets. The price of eggplant rose from P250 to P400 per pack, squash from P27 to P35/kg and calamansi from P100 to P120/kg.
Traders said some produce is sourced from the Ilocos Region and warned that transportation expenses could rise further if fuel prices continue to climb.
Transport groups have also cautioned that shipping fees may increase by as much as 20 percent to 30 percent, citing the heavy reliance of trucking operations on petroleum products.
Despite these developments, Go called on traders, suppliers and other stakeholders in the food supply chain to practice fairness and responsibility in pricing.
He emphasized that ethical trading practices are especially important during periods of economic strain when many households are already struggling to stretch their daily budgets.
“Many families are tightening their spending. Some are buying only half a kilo, or just a few pieces so their money will be enough,” Go said. “I hope traders will also consider the situation of ordinary citizens.”
Go added that food and other basic goods are necessities, making fair pricing a matter that directly affects people’s daily survival.
The senator encouraged the public to remain mindful of their spending and to support vendors who continue to keep prices reasonable despite market pressures.
