DA requests Comelec exemption for LGUs to sell NFA rice during election ban

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has requested the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to exempt local government units (LGUs) from the spending ban during the May 2025 midterm elections for selling National Food Authority's (NFA) rice stocks.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced this request during a ceremony in Valenzuela City, where he revealed that 67 LGUs have already expressed interest in buying NFA rice to sell to the public.

Comelec Resolution 11060 mandates a certificate of exemption for activities and programs on social welfare projects during the spending ban period from March 28 to May 11, 2025.

The release of NFA rice stocks was prompted by a food security emergency declaration on February 3, allowing the sale of buffer stocks at P35 per kilo to stabilize retail prices.

Under DA Circular No. 4, a total of 625,600 bags of NFA rice are allocated for distribution across various regions and the National Capital Region (including Cavite and Rizal).