DA Sec Laurel calls for RTL review, citing threat to rice industry

Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has called for a review and potential amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law, warning that it 'threatens to kill' the rice industry.

During a Senate hearing on Wednesday, Laurel argued that full liberalization of rice imports undermines the DA's ability to protect this vital commodity and maintain stable prices.

In a news release on Thursday, Tiu Laurel appealed to lawmakers to support proposed amendments to the RTL, describing it as a 'well-meaning policy' with unintended consequences for Filipino rice farmers.

He emphasized that the NFA needs its mandate to regulate supply, stabilize prices, and intervene during crises to protect local farmers from market volatility.

Tiu Laurel also cited data showing palay prices began to rebound following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s announcement of a temporary rice import suspension, set to take effect on Sept. 1.

The DA chief echoed Senator Rodante Marcoleta's statement that the Philippines is still far from attaining food security and stressed the importance of importing only what is necessary while maximizing local production.