Fruit prices spike as New Year approaches in the Philippines

Due to superstitions of round-shaped fruits being ‘lucky’ for the coming new year, the price of grapes in Divisoria has jumped from P150 per kilo to P200. The price of ponkans, US red apples, and kiwi fruit have also been raised to 3 pieces for P100, while Fuji apples are now sold at P50 for 4 pieces and lemons at 3 pieces for P50. Chico and dalandan are also being sold at P100 per kilo. “Laki ng tinaas [ng prutas para] sa isang kahon kasi 100 ang tinaas eh. Minsan 200,” said fruit seller Liza Corañes.(The price of fruit has really gone up since each box jumped by 100 pesos, sometimes 200.) Fruits may also be bought individually to make way for superstitions that only 12 or 13 pieces of round fruit are on the table during the traditional Media Noche. Customized fruit baskets may also be bought at Sta. Elena Street in Divisoria, Manila for P1,000 up to P2,500 depending on its contents.. “Simula pa po noong Christmas, may mga order na kami na fruit basket. Meron tayong local, kasi ...