With meat prices constantly going up, more Filipino families are turning to fish as a healthier and more budget-friendly protein. That’s why searches for the best budget fish in the Philippines continue to rise in 2025—especially among moms planning weekly meals.
Fish prices change almost daily, but knowing which ones are consistently affordable can help you plan smarter and eat better without overspending.
Why Fish Is a Smart Protein Choice in 2025
- Often cheaper than pork and beef
- High in protein and omega-3
- Cooks faster than most meats
- Lighter and easier to digest
For busy moms, fish checks all the boxes: quick, healthy, and sulit.
Top Budget Fish for Filipino Families (2025 Price Guide)
Prices vary by location and season. These are average wet market prices in Metro Manila.
1. Galunggong (Round Scad)
Price: ₱180–₱240 per kilo
Still known as the “people’s fish,” galunggong remains one of the most affordable options.
Easy recipes:
- Fried galunggong
- Paksiw na galunggong
- Galunggong escabeche
2. Tilapia
Price: ₱200–₱260 per kilo
Readily available and very versatile.
Easy recipes:
- Crispy fried tilapia
- Inihaw na tilapia
- Tilapia sinigang
3. Bangus (Milkfish)
Price: ₱220–₱320 per kilo
Bangus can be stretched across multiple meals when cut properly.
Easy recipes:
- Bangus sinigang
- Daing na bangus
- Bangus belly steak (bistek)
Check out my BANGUS BISTEK recipe here.
4. Tamban (Sardines)
Price: ₱160–₱220 per kilo
A budget favorite that cooks quickly and feeds many.
Easy recipes:
- Fried tamban
- Tamban paksiw
- Ginisang tamban
5. Hasa-Hasa (Short Mackerel)
Price: ₱200–₱260 per kilo
Affordable and flavorful, especially for sabaw dishes.
Easy recipes:
- Hasa-hasa sinigang
- Fried hasa-hasa
- Paksiw na hasa-hasa
6. Dalagang Bukid
Price: ₱230–₱300 per kilo
A great alternative when galunggong prices spike.
Easy recipes:
- Fried dalagang bukid
- Sweet and sour dalagang bukid
Why Moms Choose Fish Over Meat
- Cheaper per serving
- Shorter cooking time
- Less oil needed
- Great for heart health
Fish is also easier to pair with gulay, making meals more balanced.
Tips for Buying Fish on a Budget
- Buy early morning for fresher catch
- Ask vendors what’s cheapest that day
- Choose smaller fish — they’re often cheaper
- Buy in bulk and freeze portions
Fish has become a regular part of our weekly meal plan — not just because it’s healthier, but because it helps balance the grocery budget. When you know which fish are consistently affordable, planning meals becomes easier and less stressful.
Bookmark this list — I’ll keep updating it as fish prices change throughout 2026.
