Agriculture Secretary Announces Emphasis on NFA Rice Release During Election Spending Ban
Amid the ongoing election spending ban, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has unveiled an initiative to release National Food Authority (NFA) rice stocks to address the food security emergency in the Philippines. This move comes as the government seeks ways to stabilize rice prices, making essential grains more accessible to the public despite stringent financial restrictions.
The Initiation and Intent
During a ceremonial event in Valenzuela City, Secretary Laurel disclosed a letter to the Commission on Elections (Comelec), officially informing them of a new program involving the distribution of NFA rice stocks. This action comes after the declaration of a food security emergency on February 3, following recommendations from the National Price Coordinating Council.
“We are [actually] releasing a letter to the Comelec to officially inform them that we have a program like this,” Laurel stated during the ceremony. He further explained that 67 local government units (LGUs) have expressed their interest in purchasing the NFA rice, which they will then sell to the public or to their respective constituents.
Seeking an Exemption from Comelec
The minister highlighted the need for assistance from Comelec, specifically an exemption under Resolution 11060, which mandates a certificate of exemption for social welfare projects and services during the spending ban, effective from March 28 to May 11, 2025.
Previously, in January, Comelec had announced exemptions for several social programs, including the controversial Ayuda Para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP). By seeking a similar exemption for the NFA rice distribution, the government ensures continuity in its efforts to stabilize food prices amidst budget constraints.
The Release of NFA Rice Stocks
The release of NFA rice stocks will be facilitated through Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) and will be sold to the public at P35 per kilogram. This price point is among the most affordable, aimed at reducing rice prices to levels seen before the spike recorded in June and July 2023.
According to DA Circular No. 4, a total of 625,600 bags of NFA rice stocks have been allocated for distribution due to the food security emergency declaration. The distribution is strategically distributed across various regions:
- Region IV – 47,000 bags
- Region V – 38,600 bags
- Region VI – 58,000 bags
- Region VII – 50,000 bags
- Region VIII – 18,000 bags
- Region IX – 21,000 bags
- Region X – 20,000 bags
- Region XI – 19,000 bags
- Region XII – 36,000 bags
- National Capital Region (including Cavite and Rizal) – 293,000 bags
- Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) – 5,000 bags
- Caraga – 20,000 bags
Government Warning on Rice Prices
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has issued a warning against selling NFA rice at prices exceeding P35 per kilogram. This precaution ensures the effectiveness of the food security emergency measures and maintains the low prices intended to benefit consumers.
Conclusion and Relevance
This initiative demonstrates the Philippine government’s commitment to ensuring food security and stability, even under challenging financial circumstances. By coordinating with key agencies and addressing regulatory hurdles, the DA aims to provide essential relief to Filipino communities through affordable rice prices.
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