MANILA -- Several markets in Metro Manila saw few market-goers, days before the New Year festivities. 

In Mega Q Mart in Cubao, Quezon City, fruit vendors said prices of round fruits are now increasing. They explained some suppliers have already increased prices, and it is expected to go up further on Dec. 30 - 31.

Prices of round fruits seen to go up before New Year's Eve 

Around P10 - P20 increase are expected in select fruits as the new year approaches. 

“Ngayong araw po hindi pa ganun kalakas ‘yung benta tapos sumabay pa po ‘yung ulan,” fruit stall staff Luiz Cahanding said. 

Some of the best-selling fruits include apple with prices ranging from P100 per 3 pieces; ponkan for P10 - P35 a piece; kiat-kiat for P130 per kilo; and grapes for P200 - P400 per kilo. 

Josie Luceño, 56, has started completing 12 round fruits as part of media noche which is believed to bring prosperity. 

“Mula nung maliliit ‘yung mga anak ko, parang ‘yun na po ‘yung nakagawian ko. Wala namang bayad, libre naman ang good luck,” she said. 

Some vendors, meanwhile, are offering baskets with assorted fruits ranging from P500 to P1,250.

No significant price increases in food items ahead of Noche Buena, says DTI 

“‘Yung sa mga tinatamad kasi na lumabas, nag-o-offer kami ng fruit basket na 13 kinds (of fruits). Kasi masama ‘yung panahon kaya mas ino-offer namin siya ngayon,” fruit stall owner Ricky Puno said. 

Meat vendors also saw few market-goers today. 

Meat stall owner Elizabeth Espino believes one factor is the inclement weather and the post-Christmas festivities. 

“Sa ngayon, talagang matumal pa. Ine-expect namin sa 31,” she noted. 

She said meat prices have also gone up, including pork which saw a P40 increase this month. 

In Trabajo Market in Manila, fruit vendors also saw a decline in sales. 

“Sa ngayon talaga wala pa. Pero sana itong darating na 30-31, pag hindi umulan, siguro. ‘Yan lang inaasahan namin dito eh,” fruit stall owner Benjie Antinero said. 

“Noong nakaraang taon, medyo okay okay kasi wala namang ulan nu’n. Pero ngayon, maulan eh. Matumal talaga,” he added. 

Market-goers are encouraged by vendors to buy fruits and other media noche items while prices are cheaper.