Baguio: The local market rice retailers' association here said Wednesday they are doing their best to cushion the effect of fuel price increases on their commodity while ensuring a buffer supply for city residents. John Paul Peralta, spokesperson of the Baguio City market rice retailers' association, said they buy more stocks anticipating price increases to avoid immediately raising prices.

According to Philippines News Agency, if retailers get a good price and anticipate an increase, they purchase more stocks to maintain prices despite gas price hikes, ensuring a steady supply for Baguio residents. Peralta explained that many retailers are selling at break-even prices or with minimal profit instead of the usual markup.

Peralta described the government's PHP20 per kilo rice program as beneficial, especially for vulnerable sectors. However, he noted that it is limited in scope, primarily aiding families in need. He emphasized the importance of this program for local residents.

Personnel from the Department of Agriculture conduct daily price and quality checks at the market. Peralta mentioned that these checks sometimes include the Public Order and Safety Division, ensuring no overpricing occurs.

Since February 28, rice prices for 25-kilogram bags have seen an increase of PHP100 to PHP300. Regular milled rice ranges from PHP46 to PHP52 per kilo, well-milled rice from PHP54 to PHP58 per kilo, and imported rice from PHP60 to PHP65 per kilo. Most local rice sold in Baguio comes from Cagayan Valley, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, and parts of Pangasinan.