Prices of flowers remain stable as “Kalag-kalag” nears

Local

AS Cebu City gears up for the solemn observance of All Souls' Day and All Saints' Day, flower prices remain stable, according to local vendors.

This stability comes as a relief to many consumers who are preparing to honor their departed loved ones with floral offerings.

However, sellers caution that an uptick in demand could lead to price increases in the coming days as the celebrations approach.

Flower vendors report that the current prices for fresh and arranged flowers are steady. While arrangements and bouquets can be purchased at affordable rates now, sellers anticipate a potential increase of P100 to P150 per bundle as more customers begin to flock to markets.

Currently, small arrangements are priced between P250 and P350, while medium-sized arrangements range from P600 to P700. Larger flower stands are available for around P1,000.

These prices reflect the variety and quality of flowers being offered, as vendors seek to provide customers with meaningful tributes to their loved ones.

Mary Gabonada, a flower vendor at the Carbon Market Interim Building, shared her insights on the upcoming days. She expects a significant increase in foot traffic as the observance draws closer.

"Daghan, kay mao mana ang okasyon, so tanan ana magdisplay ug mag-arranage (Many will come because this is the occasion, and everyone will display and arrange flowers)," she said.

Vendors at the Carbon Market offer a vibrant selection of flowers sourced from various suppliers, featuring both local and regional products. They obtain blooms from suppliers in Baguio City and Cagayan de Oro, places known for their quality flowers.

Additionally, many vendors source flowers locally from areas like Dalaguete town, and from upland barangays in Cebu City.This diverse supply chain not only supports local farmers but also ensures a wide variety of flowers for customers to choose from.

All Saints' Day, observed on November 1, honors all saints of the Christian faith, both known and unknown. This day serves as a reminder of the virtues and significance of these saints in Christian tradition.

The following day, All Souls' Day, celebrated on November 2, focuses on remembering and praying for the souls of the departed.

During this period, families often visit cemeteries, clean graves, and decorate them with flowers and candles to pay their respects to loved ones who have passed away.

Meanwhile, officials from the Cebu City Traffic Office earlier urged motorists and the commuting public to be aware of the rerouting scheme implemented for the celebration, aimed at decongesting traffic around public cemeteries in the city.(MyTVCebu)