Philippine pig output continues to decline while chicken production rises for Q1, 2025

PHILIPPINES – The Philippines’ hog production has dropped by 3.7% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Total hog output from January to March reached 403.79 thousand metric tonnes (MT) in liveweight terms, lower than the 419.34 thousand MT recorded a year earlier.

Although the decrease remains significant, it is a slight improvement from the 4.3% decline posted in the first quarter of 2024.

Northern Mindanao emerged as the largest contributor to national hog production, accounting for 57.99 thousand MT or 14.4% of the total.

It was closely followed by Calabarzon with 57.36 thousand MT, while Central Luzon reported 50.66 thousand MT, Central Visayas recorded 40.86 thousand MT, and Davao Region registered 31.72 thousand MT.

Among regions that experienced reduced output, Calabarzon saw the most significant cut, with production falling by 6.14 thousand MT year on year.

The PSA also reported that as of March 31, the total swine population stood at 8.84 million heads, down by 11.3% from the 9.96 million heads recorded at the same time last year.

Smallhold farms made up the bulk of the country’s pig population, accounting for 71.1%, while commercial farms held 26.1% and semi-commercial farms 2.8%.

Retail prices remain elevated

Despite lower production levels and ongoing supply issues, the price of pork has remained high in retail markets.

From May 1 to 5, the average retail price of fresh pork shoulder (kasim) was US$6.67 (₱369.64) per kilogram, based on PSA’s market monitoring.

Although a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) policy had been in place earlier in the year, it was lifted on May 15 following requests from the pork industry.

Industry players argued that high prices across the pork value chain left retailers unable to meet the suggested price cap.

Chicken production expands across regions

In contrast, the country’s chicken production increased by 8.7% year on year in the first quarter, reaching 550.50 thousand MT in liveweight.

Central Luzon remained the leading chicken-producing region, contributing 187.92 thousand MT, or 34.1% of the national total.

Calabarzon followed with 104.91 thousand MT, trailed by Northern Mindanao at 46.57 thousand MT, Central Visayas with 27.70 thousand MT, and Soccksargen at 24.52 thousand MT.

Out of 17 regions, 14 reported increased chicken output compared to the same period in 2024, with Central Luzon posting the largest rise at 17 thousand MT.

Broiler chickens made up the majority of the output at 86.1%, while native and improved breeds contributed 12%, culled layers 1.5%, and gamefowl for breeding 0.4%.

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