Palace backs NFA’s power to import 20% of local rice

Malacañang expressed support on Wednesday for restoring the National Food Authority’s (NFA) power to directly import and buy 20 percent of local rice to influence market prices.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro noted that the NFA currently faces challenges due to its loss of direct importation authority under the Rice Tariffification Law, which hinders its ability to regulate prices and ensure adequate supply during lean months.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel urged lawmakers to pass legislation that would better empower the DA to address the decline in local rice prices, noting that the NFA's limited authority prevents effective market intervention.

Castro emphasized the importance of giving the NFA more control over rice imports to better address market needs and support local farmers, as farmers currently cannot directly address their needs due to restrictions imposed by Local Government Units (LGUs).

The Department of Agriculture declared a food security emergency on rice in February, allowing the agency to release rice buffer stocks held by the NFA to stabilize prices and ensure that rice remains accessible to consumers.

Despite these efforts, only four local government units had bought NFA rice for resale, highlighting the need for more direct intervention without requiring a declaration of emergency.