The demand for CLACKERS, also known as lato-lato, has caused prices to soar up to P150 per piece. These toys, consisting of two plastic balls connected by a thread, create a distinct clacking sound when swung. They have become highly sought after, particularly among children.
During a recent monitoring by SunStar Davao on June 16 in Bankerohan and Agdao Public Market, clackers were found to be priced between P70 and P150 per piece. Just last week, the cost ranged from P40 to P70 per piece.
According to Anton Braulio, a vendor, the price increase is primarily driven by the high demand and the pricing set by suppliers. He stated, “The demand is at an all-time high, as children have become very fond of these toys after seeing them on TikTok. This has motivated them to buy clackers.”
Another vendor, Beth, who preferred not to disclose her last name, mentioned that the demand for lato-lato is so overwhelming that they sell out before noon every day. She said, “Since last week, many people have been purchasing clackers to join the trend.”
Nabel Saga, another vendor, also highlighted the need to raise lato-lato prices and predicted that the trend may last for one to two years. “The suppliers are selling them at higher prices. We estimate that the popularity of lato-lato may continue for a year or two,” Saga added.
In an interview with Jenny Grace Mendoza, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regional information officer and knowledge management coordinator for Davao Region, she mentioned that complaints about defective toys like lato-lato can be reported to them. However, she clarified that under the Price Act (Republic Act No. 7581), only basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPC) are subject to the suggested retail price (SRP). Mendoza stated, “The prices of toys are not regulated by the DTI because they are not classified as basic necessities. Toys are not included in the list of BNPC.”
While clackers were popular in the past, they recently gained significant attention through TikTok as part of a trending challenge to see who can keep the balls clacking the longest.
