A surprise inspection at the New Marulas Public Market early Friday by officials from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Food Terminal Inc. uncovered significant issues over the implementation of the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) program for both imported rice and local pork.
The visit, led by DA assistant secretary Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra, followed a report from Valenzuela mayor Wes Gatchalian regarding rice labeled as “President” being sold at P62 per kilo—P13 above the MSRP for imported rice. While the rice brand was not found in most stalls, the DA team collected other rice samples for quality checks.
In addition to rice issues, vendors were found selling pork above the agreed MSRPs, with prices for liempo, pigue, kasim, and sabit ulo significantly exceeding the farm gate price of P230 per kilo. This inspection, aimed at protecting consumers from overpricing, comes as the DA continues efforts to enforce price regulations.
Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel commended the proactive actions of the Valenzuela LGU and mayor Gatchalian, stressing the need for further surprise inspections to protect consumer welfare and ensure compliance with pricing rules.
The visit also highlighted price increases in chicken and vegetables, prompting recommendations for more frequent market checks to maintain fair pricing practices for consumers.
