The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Philippines, led by Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., is poised to declare a ‘food security emergency’ by the end of January to tackle the escalating retail prices of rice. This decision follows a resolution from the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC), which has urged the DA to act due to persistent high rice prices, despite falling global costs and tariff cuts mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
In an ambush interview, Tiu Laurel explained that the emergency declaration would facilitate the release of rice stocks held by the National Food Authority (NFA). This move is intended to allow the NFA to sell these stocks at reduced prices to local government units (LGUs) and other government agencies, thereby freeing up warehouse space and supporting local farmers through palay procurement ahead of the upcoming harvest season.
Tiu Laurel targeted the end of January for the declaration, with plans to offer NFA stocks to LGUs and other government entities in February. Potential buyers also include the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and various government-owned and controlled corporations.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque emphasized the urgency of this action, highlighting its role in enforcing reasonable rice prices and protecting consumers from price gouging. She stressed the importance of all markets adhering to the DA’s directive to lower the prices of imported rice, while also ensuring a fair deal for wholesalers, traders, and retailers.
The NFA currently holds nearly 300,000 metric tons of rice, which can be distributed to help stabilize prices. Under the Rice Tariffication Law, the NFA’s role is primarily to procure palay from local farmers to maintain a national rice buffer stock for emergencies. Recent amendments have increased the target procurement volume to cover 15 days of supply, up from the previous nine days, to better support disaster relief efforts.