The Department of Agriculture (DA) is stepping up efforts to avert a potential egg shortage and price spike in the Philippines, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. announced on Friday. With global bird flu outbreaks affecting egg production in other countries, the DA is taking preemptive measures to avoid a similar crisis locally.
The Philippines is facing a potential shortage by April due to reduced egg-laying hen populations after producers culled their flocks in response to an oversupply and weak demand in 2024. While no major bird flu outbreaks have been reported yet, the DA is pushing for the quick importation of egg-laying chickens and approval of avian influenza vaccines.
The DA is also working to secure P300 million in funding for vaccine testing and mass inoculation efforts, which could start as early as March. Tiu Laurel emphasized that swift action could help stabilize egg production, preventing price hikes and protecting consumers in the coming months. The DA is calling on financial institutions to support the industry’s recovery and ensure food security.
