Senate reviews amendments to Rice Tariffication Law

The Senate resumed discussions on Wednesday regarding proposed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law, which has failed to deliver its promise of lowering rice prices and improving the agriculture sector.

Senate Committee on Agriculture chair Francis Pangilinan stated that the law's goal of reducing rice prices and strengthening local farmers has not been met, with imports surging from 1.17 million metric tons in 2017 to 4.77 million MT in 2024.

The committee reviewed Senate Bill 284, which aims to realign tariff policies, strengthen safety nets for farmers, and reassess the role of the National Food Authority (NFA).

Leonardo Montemayor from the Federation of Free Farmers suggested addressing rice supply shortages by intensifying efforts against profiteering and hoarding.

The Department of Agriculture proposed restructuring the NFA to focus on market monitoring, strategic buffer stocking, and adopting land protection measures to secure long-term rice production.