PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan (PIA) -- The rates of flowers have started to increase in local stores as sellers anticipate a peak of orders by February 13 for the celebration of Valentine’s Day.

Aside from the most sought-after roses, Emie San Jose of Ems Floral Design observed that tulips and sunflowers are also in demand for bouquet arrangements. The roses have started to spike from P350 to P500 as a result of an increase in the rates of their suppliers.

The bundle of flowers sourced out by sellers from Manila and Cebu to Puerto Princesa City now ranges from around P1,500 to P1,700, from then P500 to P1,000. Sellers sourced out imported flowers for about P1,800 per bundle.

“Baka dadagsa sila bukas (February 13) o sa February 14. Sunod sa fresh ay dried flowers na ang mabenta na nilalagyan nila ng chocolates. Ngayon ang sunflower ay tumaas,” she said.

Customers usually avail at an average rate of P280 to P300. To fit the customers’ budget, stores customize the packages of bouquets, which range from P200 to P3,000.

Some of the imported flowers are expected to arrive in stores a day before Valentine's Day to preserve their quality.

Sam’s Flower Shop also noticed the recovery in the floral industry in 2024, as customers are more willing to spend on packages of bouquets and dozens of flowers. It is a development from 2023’s demands of bouquets with just three or one flower.

“Recovered na ngayon sa Pilipinas, ngayon pa lang nakakarecover ngayong taon, kasi nakaraang taon ay hindi pa gaano. Nalalaman namin kung fully recovered na kung customers, makikita mo kung gaano sila kabongga bumili,” seller said.

Sellers expect the price of flowers to drop by February 17.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it only monitors basic necessities and commodities, which excludes flowers, chocolates, and stuffed toys that are in-demand during the season.

However, DTI Palawan information officer Persival Narbonita said the department conducts special monitoring if an order is issued by the central office. (RG/PIA MIMAROPA - Palawan)