Farmers' group decries rice tariff cuts

Farmers' group Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) asserts that Executive Order (EO) No. 135, which lowers rice import tariffs, lacks basis and is deceptive, as there is no current shortage of imported rice.

FFF National Manager Raul Q. Montemayor stated that the EO is a "cruel joke" on farmers, as importers can already import rice freely under Republic Act No. 11203, provided they adhere to quarantine regulations.

Montemayor pointed out that the Philippines imports rice not only from Vietnam and other ASEAN countries but also from nine other nations, including India, Pakistan, and China.

He further cited Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data showing that the national rice inventory on March 1 was 2.08 million metric tons, only 4.5% lower than the previous year, and this stock would have been supplemented by the recent dry season harvest.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed EO 135, which reduces the tariff on rice imports to 35% from 40% for a period of one year.

Senator Francis N. Pangilinan echoed these concerns, stating that the tariff reduction should only be implemented during periods of shortage and high prices, which he believes is not the current situation.

Pangilinan noted that the Department of Agriculture has declared no rice shortage, and inflation in rice prices in April was negative 0.3%, indicating ample supply.

He anticipates that lower rice tariffs will benefit importers and reduce government revenue, and is preparing to file a joint resolution to withdraw the tariff reduction.