Bukidnon governor imposes then lifts rice export ban

On Friday, March 27, Bukidnon Governor Jose Maria Zubiri imposed and then lifted a ban on rice exports within hours.

Zubiri initially banned all rice producers, traders, and suppliers from selling or delivering rice grains outside the province to ensure distribution of 100,000 bags of rice to vulnerable residents during the lockdown.

The governor cited the need for an additional 60,000 bags of rice at PHP1,850 per bag but later rescinded the order after local suppliers assured him of sufficient supply.

National and regional officials criticized the ban, citing potential negative economic impacts on neighboring provinces and urging equitable distribution of food supplies.