Speaker Martin Romualdez has expressed his support for the Department of Agriculture’s decision to set the price of National Food Authority (NFA) rice at PHP35 per kilogram, describing it as a vital move towards achieving food security. Speaking on February 12, 2025, Romualdez emphasized the importance of this price adjustment but also highlighted the necessity of ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their efforts.
Romualdez’s comments followed the announcement of price reductions for various Rice for All (RFA) options under the Marcos administration’s Kadiwa ng Pangulo program. Effective immediately, RFA5 rice is now priced at PHP43 per kilogram, RFA25 at PHP35 per kilogram, and RFA100 at PHP33 per kilogram. Additionally, the NFA will continue to offer aging yet quality rice at PHP29 per kilogram to vulnerable groups, including beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and solo parents.
The Speaker stressed the importance of striking a balance between consumer affordability and farmer welfare. He advocated for maintaining high farmgate prices to ensure farmers earn a fair income while keeping market prices accessible to consumers. Romualdez also committed to monitoring the implementation of this pricing strategy and suggested that the lower house is prepared to explore subsidies or targeted assistance programs to support farmers without compromising rice affordability for the public.
He called for close collaboration between the Department of Agriculture, the National Food Authority, and Congress to prevent any negative impact on local rice production. Romualdez reiterated that the ultimate goal is to achieve food security that benefits both farmers and consumers, acknowledging the challenge of aligning their interests but underscoring its importance for the economy and food security.
Continuous evaluation of the policy’s effects and open communication among stakeholders are essential, according to Romualdez, to ensure that no sector is disadvantaged. He affirmed the House’s readiness to intervene and find solutions that protect farmers’ welfare while ensuring all Filipinos have access to affordable rice.