The Philippine National Police (PNP) has pledged its full support for the enforcement of Republic Act 12022, known as the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act. This commitment was announced by PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil on December 18, 2024, emphasizing the police force’s role in tackling smuggling, hoarding, and profiteering of agricultural goods, with a special focus on rice.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently signed this significant legislation, aiming to protect food security and shield Filipino consumers from the adverse effects of illegal activities that drive up rice prices. Gen. Marbil stressed the PNP’s readiness to work alongside other agencies to arrest and prosecute individuals involved in economic sabotage.
The PNP chief underscored the importance of holding smugglers and hoarders accountable for their actions, which threaten food security and the livelihoods of Filipino farmers. He highlighted that the new law is designed to reduce rice prices, safeguard farmers, and ensure that Filipinos have consistent access to affordable food.
Under the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, activities such as smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, forming cartels, and financing these illegal operations are classified as economic sabotage. Offenders face severe penalties, including life imprisonment and fines that are three times the value of the seized agricultural products. Those involved in the transportation or storage of illegal goods could be imprisoned for 20 to 30 years and fined twice the value of the goods.
The law also introduces measures to monitor market irregularities, including the establishment of a Daily Price Index. Additionally, it creates the Anti-Agricultural Economic Council and the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Enforcement Group to enhance enforcement efforts against economic sabotage.