SHOPPERS at the bustling Cebu City Public Market are feeling the pinch as prices of goods have seen both increases and decreases as of Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Carbon Market in Cebu City.
Jennifer, a meat vendor of 30 years, said the prices of pork have decreased over the past week by P10, dropping from P380–P370 per kilogram to P250–P360 per kilogram.
"Daghan ang supply sa baboy, mao nang naay pag ubos sa presyo," she explained, adding that the current availability has helped stabilize the market despite changes in demand.
In contrast to the decline in pork prices, fish prices have surged by about 20 percent recently.
According to Federico Orongan, a 71-year-old fish vendor, the price of Anduhaw climbed from P150 per kilogram to P175 per kilogram, while Mamsa went up from P240 to P260 per kilogram.
Despite the increases, Orongan said vendors set their own prices depending on their capital and how much they earn for the day.
“Dinhi gud, kay wa may permanenteng presyo. Dili man ni siya fixed price diri sa Carbon Market. Ang fixed price, tua ra sa mall. Ang among presyo, dili magkadimao. Ang iyang isda (referring to another vendor) tag-P250, ako tag-P230. Dili magkadimao ba. Depende man na sa among saldo,” he said.
Marife Dominguez and Marilou Marentes, who have long relied on selling goods as their primary source of income, are currently feeling the impact of ongoing price changes.
Chicken prices have seen a minor adjustment as local businesses respond to fluctuating supplier rates. Previously priced at P190, the cost of chicken has been increased by P5, bringing the new selling price to P195.
Despite the financial challenges brought on by rising costs, both vendors remain optimistic.
As prices for essential goods vary, consumers are encouraged to shop locally and make informed choices based on current prices. (Jessa M. Bacus, UV intern and Frances Ibo, VSU intern)