Florists in Dangwa advised patrons that flower prices may continue to swell on Valentine’s Day, Friday, Feb. 14.

The best-selling flowers during the celebration were priced as follows:

• Tulips - P150 per stem
• Ecuadorian roses - P250 per stem
• China roses - P800 per 10 stems
• Carnations - P300 per 10 stems
• Gerberas - P300 per bundle.

The cost of these flowers incurred a P50-100 price increase depending on their kind.

Flower vendor Julius Oronan, who exclusively sells pre-arranged flowers, told TomasinoWeb that he expected the prices to swell as demand rises during the “peak season.”

He said that the cost of flower bouquets has increased, including Carnations, now priced at P300 from P250 per bundle, Paper roses at P900 from P850, and Gerberas at P300 from P250.

Oronan added that many customers chose to buy dried flowers because they can be preserved and last longer than fresh ones. Prices of dried flowers ranged from P350 to P1,600, depending on the type and arrangement.

“‘Yung iba mas pinipili [yung] dried flowers kasi nape-preserve,” he said.

In contrast, florist Lorena said that prices of certain flowers like Ecuadorian Roses and Tulips will unlikely change on Valentine's unless they run out.

Both vendors anticipated more patrons on Valentine’s Day.

Mia, a customer from Pasig, told TomasinoWeb that she chose to visit Dangwa because of the relatively lower prices of flowers.

“Dangwa is like my go-to place when it comes to buying flowers because it’s [inexpensive] compared to other shops,” she said.

Mia said she chose to arrange the flowers and has set a budget of P2,000 to make 15 bouquets.

For Mia, gifting flowers symbolized “pure love,” a gesture expressing her appreciation for her loved ones.

“[Giving flowers symbolizes] pure love. From giving them flowers you like, [it] makes them feel loved. Just pure love.”