The Department of Agriculture (DA) has formally requested the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to lift the election ban on the distribution of rice from the National Food Authority (NFA) to local government units (LGUs). This request comes as part of a broader initiative to address food security concerns, with the distribution program kicking off on February 19 in selected areas.
During a press conference held alongside the distribution event in Valenzuela City, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the submission of a letter to Comelec, seeking an exemption for the participating LGUs. The program allows LGUs to purchase NFA rice at PHP33 per kilogram through the Food Terminal Incorporated (FTI), with the option to resell it to their communities at up to PHP35 per kilogram.
Tiu Laurel emphasized the need for Comelec’s support, stating that they have sought assistance to ensure that applying LGUs receive the necessary exemptions. So far, 67 LGUs have expressed interest in acquiring rice stocks from the NFA to provide affordable rice to their residents.
The request for an exemption is crucial as Comelec Resolution 11060 prohibits the release, disbursement, or expenditure of public funds for social services 45 days before the upcoming May 12 midterm national and local elections. Previously, Comelec has granted exemptions to certain social welfare programs managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), Walang Gutom Program (WGP), and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), under specific conditions.