Imported flower prices rise on fuel costs

By Paulo DS Papa

PRICES of imported fresh flowers in Naga City are expected to increase ahead of All Saints’ Day on November 1 and All Souls’ Day on November 2, as vendors cite rising transportation costs and increased demand during the annual observance.

Mario Camba, president of the Fresh Flower Section of the Naga City People’s Mall, said imported flowers, including Malaysian mums, anthuriums and roses, cost around P350 per dozen. The flowers are sourced from Dangwa in Sampaloc, Manila.

Camba said the prices of imported flowers are expected to increase by P29 per dozen due to changes in fuel prices that affect transportation costs. The flowers are imported from China and distributed through Manila-based suppliers.

On Tuesday, October 27, diesel prices increased by P1.20 per liter, following a P2.60-per-liter hike the previous week. Gasoline prices, meanwhile, dropped by P0.30 per liter, a smaller rollback than the P4.30-per-liter reduction recorded the week before. Kerosene prices also increased by P0.50 per liter after a P1-per-liter rollback the previous week.

Camba also noted a limited supply of locally grown flowers at the public market, attributing this to buyers going directly to flower farms in Zone 1, Kilometer 9, Barangay Pacol, Naga City.

Diosdado Ador, president of the Pacol Cut Flowers Planters Association, said local growers sell flowers for P250 to P300 per bundle, depending on quality.

Ador said the farmers cultivate varieties suited to the foothills of Mount Isarog, including regatta, golden yellow and aster. Sunflowers are also available for P30 per piece, while imported sunflower varieties sell for P70 each.

The association expects more buyers and visitors to flock to the flower-growing community as Flores de Octubre 2026 opened on October 28, providing another opportunity for local growers to showcase and sell their products ahead of the November observances.