PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a stern warning against unscrupulous traders manipulating rice prices in his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28, 2025.
He declared that the government would actively pursue those attempting to manipulate the price of palay (unmilled rice) or rice, or who defraud farmers.
The President characterized such actions as economic sabotage, underscoring the government’s determination to protect both consumers and agricultural producers from unfair practices. This strong stance reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring fair market prices and maintaining stability within the rice industry.
In addition to addressing rice price manipulation, President Marcos emphasized his administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption in infrastructure projects under the Build Better Program. He explicitly stated that the government would not tolerate corruption in management, design flaws, construction errors, or substandard materials.
This commitment to transparency and accountability aims to ensure the efficient and effective implementation of infrastructure projects, maximizing their impact on national development while safeguarding public funds.
