Prolonged hot weather linked to the El Niño phenomenon is disrupting poultry production in the Philippines, leading to higher chicken prices, according to a report by Khaleej Times. Farmers are struggling with heat stress that slows bird growth, increases mortality, and raises feed conversion costs, squeezing supply in a market already sensitive to weather volatility.
The Philippine poultry industry relies on consistent temperatures for optimal production; extended periods above 35°C can reduce weight gain by up to 15% and spike mortality by 5–10%. This supply-side pressure, combined with higher cooling and water expenses on farms, has pushed retail chicken prices up by roughly 12–15% in recent weeks, hitting consumers already grappling with general food inflation.
Government agencies are monitoring the situation, with the Department of Agriculture exploring measures such as subsidized feed and improved ventilation systems for growers. The El Niño event, which typically lasts 9–12 months in the region, may continue to pressure poultry output through the second half of the year unless cooler weather or mitigation programs intervene.