The Department of Agriculture is moving forward with efforts to address rice pricing and food security challenges, with DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. expected to act on a food security emergency declaration by Wednesday.
This follows the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) recommendations for a food emergency declaration given the lofty prices of rice in the local market.
DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said that while the resolution copy has yet to reach the DA as of Monday, “the Secretary announced that the review process would begin immediately upon receipt, ensuring action is finalized before the February 1 target.”
Despite the decision resting at the secretary’s level, Tiu Laurel committed to consulting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has previously expressed support for declaring a food security emergency.
The DA also said it continues its strict monitoring of compliance with the P58 maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported rice.
Reports indicate strong adherence in markets such as Las Piñas, Marulas, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Pasig, Malabon, and others.
However, non-compliance was noted at the Guadalupe Commercial Complex and Pasay Public Market, where prices of P59 and P60 were observed, respectively.
“We’re pleased with the high compliance rate across Metro Manila markets. After two weeks, the Secretary will review the MSRP, targeting a potential reduction to P55 per kilo,” De Mesa said.
The current MSRP was set to provide value chain players time to adjust contracts and release older stocks.
The DA has observed market prices as low as P51, with most falling between P51 and P57. As of present, imported premium rice is at P55/kg, P48/kg for imported well-milled rice, and P40 for imported regular-milled rice.
Discussions are also underway with supermarkets, where rice prices are typically higher due to added convenience for shoppers.
To ease the burden on rice vendors, the DA is exploring rental reductions in public and private markets.
