NPCC urges DOA to declare rice food security emergency

The National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) has approved a resolution urging the Department of Agriculture to declare a 'food security emergency for rice' under Republic Act 12078 due to high prices and glutted NFA warehouses.

This declaration would enable the National Food Authority (NFA) to release buffer stock of rice to stabilize prices, support local farmers by replacing these stocks with locally produced rice ahead of the February harvest, and free up warehouse space.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr. welcomed this move as a critical step towards addressing rice affordability and its broader economic impacts on inflation and interest rates.

The Department of Agriculture has announced a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) of P58 per kilo for imported rice starting January 20, initially in Metro Manila.

Despite confirming the NPCC's recommendation to reporters, Tiu Laurel said that he is still awaiting formal transmittal and plans to discuss the matter with President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.']}