The Department of Agriculture (DA) is actively working with various local government units (LGUs) to facilitate the sale of rice from the National Food Authority (NFA) across the country. This initiative aims to make NFA rice, priced at PHP36 per kilogram, accessible to consumers through LGUs, government agencies, and government-owned corporations, even before an official food security emergency for rice is declared.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. explained that the distribution strategy focuses on areas close to NFA warehouses to minimize logistics costs and keep rice affordable. He mentioned that guidelines for this distribution would be released by the end of the month, allowing LGUs near the stocks to prepare for the allocation.
Starting February 1, under a potential food security emergency, the DA can sell NFA rice to LGUs and other government entities, which can then retail it to the public at PHP38 per kilogram. LGUs have already begun booking their allocations, with deliveries expected between February 7 and 15.
The DA has been coordinating with Metro Manila mayors to ensure NFA rice availability in the capital region, with an initial monthly target of 9,000 bags for the 17 cities and municipalities in the National Capital Region, and 3,000 bags for Calamba, Laguna. Other regions with significant NFA stocks include Calapan City and San Jose in Mindoro.
Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized the importance of consuming local stocks to avoid unnecessary transportation costs, suggesting that Mindoro could also supply NFA rice to Cebu. Currently, nearly 300,000 metric tons of NFA rice are available for sale under the proposed emergency measures.
The DA awaits the official resolution from the National Price Coordinating Council to declare the food security emergency. Once declared, it will not only make cheaper rice available to the public but also help NFA clear warehouse space and support local farmers by procuring palay for the upcoming harvest season.