PBBM orders 60-day rice import suspension

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered a 60-day suspension on the importation of regular milled and well-milled rice, effective September 1 to October 30, 2025.

This measure, formalized through Executive Order 93 signed on August 29, was recommended by the Department of Agriculture (DA) to benefit local farmers during the peak harvest season.

The suspension aims to allow the domestic market to absorb local supply and stabilize prices, helping Filipino farmers sell their palay at fair and reasonable prices.

The Department of Agriculture, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will jointly recommend if the suspension period should be shortened or extended.

These agencies are mandated to convene within 30 days upon effectivity of the order to evaluate its effects on rice supply and prices, and submit recommendations to the President within 15 days thereafter.