Courtesy: Rep Arlene Brosas FB page
By Jet D. Antolin
A GROUP of lawmakers in the House of Representatives has launched an attack on the Department of Agriculture (DA), accusing it of failing to address the worsening food crisis in the country under the leadership of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel.
Led by Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, the group, along with various organizations, demanded the immediate repeal or amendment of the Rice Liberalization Law, arguing that it has failed to benefit farmers and consumers after five years of implementation.
“The Rice Liberalization Law has been a disaster for both our farmers and consumers. Prices continue to soar while our local farmers suffer. This law, which burdens our farmers and consumers, should be scrapped,” Brosas declared.
She explained that the law’s promise of lower rice prices has not materialized. Instead, prices have skyrocketed, aggravating the food crisis as ordinary Filipinos struggle to afford basic necessities. Currently, regular-milled rice is priced at P52-P54 per kilo, while well-milled rice costs P55-58, and premium varieties reach P64.
Rep. Sarah Elago criticized Marcos and Laurel for relying heavily on imported rice while neglecting the development of the country’s agricultural sector.
“The government’s formula of liberalization, importation, and excessive taxation has clearly failed. While our farmers are neglected, rice cartels and big businesses are profiting from taxpayers’ money,” Elago said.
The group also called for the removal of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on basic food items and the excise tax on petroleum products, arguing that these taxes contribute to the financial burden on Filipinos.
“Filipinos need immediate relief. We cannot wait until families have nothing left to eat,” Brosas emphasized.
