SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez today expressed strong support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to certify as urgent the bill amending the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), saying the legislative action underscores the government’s commitment to reducing market prices and protecting farmers and consumers from unscrupulous traders and profiteers.
In a media interview at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City Monday morning, President Marcos, Jr. said he would certify as urgent the proposed amendments to Republic Act No. 11203 or the RTL.
“The certification of this bill as urgent by President Marcos is a critical step forward in our concerted efforts to improve the livelihood of our local farmers and ensure food security for all Filipinos,” stated Speaker Romualdez.
“This amendment will allow us to address the challenges and limitations of the current law, ensuring that it serves the best interest of the agricultural sector and the consumers.”
The proposed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law aim to enhance the competitive edge of Filipino rice farmers by providing them with more robust support and protection.
Moreover, the changes are designed to stabilize rice prices by reducing the influence of unregulated rice importation and curbing the ability of middlemen to inflate prices excessively.
Among others, Speaker Romualdez and several other solons have proposed amending the RTL to restore the National Food Authority’s role to sell rice directly to public markets. Under the current law, the NFA’s mandate is limited to ensuring buffer stocks for disasters.
“By adjusting the framework for rice importation and enhancing the role of the National Food Authority in the market, we can better protect our rice prices from the volatility caused by international markets and the predatory practices of some traders,” Romualdez explained.
“This will lead to more stable and predictable pricing for consumers while ensuring farmers receive a fair price for their produce,” he added.
The Speaker called on his colleagues in both houses of Congress to support the rapid passage of the bill, emphasizing the urgency of implementing reforms that will bolster the nation’s agriculture and ensure affordable, accessible rice for every Filipino household.
“Let us work together to refine this law, ensuring it truly benefits those it is intended to serve: our farmers and consumers across the nation,” concluded Speaker Romualdez.
