The Khaleej Times reports that the El Niño weather phenomenon is the primary cause of rising chicken prices in the Philippines. The extreme heat has led to higher mortality rates among broiler chickens and reduced feed efficiency, driving up production costs for farmers.
According to the report, chicken prices have increased by as much as 20 percent in some areas due to lower supply. Farmers are struggling to maintain flock sizes as high temperatures stress the animals, requiring more water and ventilation. This has pushed retail prices higher, affecting consumers across the country.
The Philippine government is monitoring the situation and considering measures such as temporary importation to stabilize supply. However, the outlook remains uncertain as El Niño is expected to persist in the coming months, potentially prolonging the impact on the poultry sector and food prices.