WITH THE annual three-month closed fishing season in the waters off Zamboanga Peninsula ending on March 1, canned sardines production is going back to normal, but prices are expected to increase next month due to the implementation of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. Engr. George G. Ledesma, president of the Industrial Group of Zamboanga, Inc. (IGZI), said the price hike is an effect on the higher diesel tax under TRAIN.

“Sixty-five percent of the total cost of the operation of the sardines’ factories here (in Zamboanga City) goes to diesel,” Mr. Ledesma said. He estimates the increase between P1 to P2 per can. “The increase is expected to take effect next month once the new stocks are ready,” he added. IGZI is also monitoring the potential impact of the increase in imported tin plates on production cost. — Albert F. Arcilla

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