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Story perspectives

Rising Transport Costs Slash Filipino Farmers' Earnings

3/30/2026

40 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Elmer Ullani, a 35-year-old farmer in northern Philippines, sold 10 tonnes of cabbage for 90,000 pesos (US$1,482) after three harvests.
Diesel costs reach 125 pesos per litre in his town, contributing to his expenses.
He spent about 8,750 pesos on fuel for a seven-hour journey to the trading post, leaving nothing to pay harvest helpers.
The outcome shows transport costs eroding farmers’ earnings.

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Story summary

Elmer Ullani, a 35-year-old farmer in northern Philippines, sold 10 tonnes of cabbage for 90,000 pesos (US$1,482) after three harvests.
Diesel costs reach 125 pesos per litre in his town, contributing to his expenses.
He spent about 8,750 pesos on fuel for a seven-hour journey to the trading post, leaving nothing to pay harvest helpers.
The outcome shows transport costs eroding farmers’ earnings.