PIA urges cage-free egg shift for resilient food systems

The PINAS Initiative for Accountability (PIA) has renewed its call for food companies in the Philippines to fulfill their cage-free egg commitments following the 2025 World Egg Day celebration.

PIA is urging brands to join cage-free incentive programs and promote more humane, safe, and disaster-resilient food systems amid worsening climate events.

The Philippines continues to face disruptions caused by typhoons and earthquakes, which expose the vulnerabilities of current supply chains and production systems.

PIA emphasized that animals kept in cages are unable to escape during disasters, resulting in widespread losses and contamination that can compromise food safety and livelihoods.

With the 2025 global deadlines for cage-free transitions approaching, many multinational food brands have yet to disclose their local progress.

In response, PIA will release its Cage-Free Tracker and Report in December 2025 to evaluate company transparency and accountability.

“We recognize that some companies may still be in transition,” said Nancy Samonte, Program Manager of PIA.

“That’s why we’re extending the timeline, to give them a chance to step up, be transparent, and take part in incentive programs that support humane sourcing.”

The cage-free incentive program offers technical support, staff training, and public recognition for companies and producers that begin sourcing or promoting cage-free eggs.

PIA reiterated that World Egg Day should remind all stakeholders of the interconnected health of humans, animals, and the planet.

The organization said food companies have a critical role to play in building ethical and resilient food systems for the country.

In 2024, a consumer survey revealed that 95% of Filipinos believe hens should not be confined in cages.

The same study found that 83% of respondents expect restaurants and food brands to switch to cage-free eggs.

Nearly nine in ten consumers also said they are willing to pay slightly more for cage-free options, citing food safety, product quality, and animal welfare as top reasons.

PIA said the upcoming Cage-Free Tracker will highlight which companies have honored their pledges and which have fallen behind, as consumer expectations continue to rise.