Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed an executive order (EO) increasing the minimum access volume (MAV) for pork imports by 150,000 metric tons (MT) to address supply shortages and stabilize market prices. Under EO 116 signed by Marcos on May 19, the MAV for pork meat for MAV Year 2026 was increased from 54,210 MT to 204,210 MT. The decision was made amid the continued spread of African swine fever (ASF), which significantly reduced the national swine inventory.
According to Philippines News Agency, EO 116 cited that the 'substantial supply shortfall and persistently elevated pork price' due to ASF resulted in higher food costs, adversely affecting consumers. The move aims to augment supply, reduce retail prices, stabilize inflation, and promote consumer welfare. 'There is an urgent need to address the existing supply gap in pork, ensure adequate and affordable food for consumers, and mitigate inflationary pressures,' the order read.
The MAV Management Committee (MMC) earlier recommended increasing the import volume for two years to ensure the continued availability and affordability of pork and processed meat products and mitigate further inflationary pressures on basic commodities. EO 110, issued on March 24, 2026, declares a state of national energy emergency and directs a whole-of-government approach to safeguard economic stability and mitigate price increases in essential goods.
Under EO 110, the Department of Agriculture is mandated to ensure the adequate supply and availability of food products at the lowest possible cost. The MMC was directed to ensure a fair allocation of imported pork volumes, with 30,000 MT allotted for processors and 120,000 MT designated for the Food Terminal, Inc. or the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Program. The committee was also directed to formulate and issue implementation guidelines within 30 days from the effectivity of the order. EO 116, made public on Thursday, takes effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
