Mimaropa police chief Brig. Gen. Joel B. Doria on Wednesday has directed all personnel to intensify the awareness campaign regarding the mandated price ceiling on rice which became effective September 5.

"This directive is in response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s mandate as outlined in Executive Order No. 39, which imposes a price ceiling on rice," he said in a statement.

The PNP has been assigned to provide the necessary support and assistance to the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Agriculture in enforcing this order, ensuring compliance with the mandated ceiling price on rice as a solution to address the increase in retail prices.

Doria emphasized the full support and dedication of all Mimaropa police in adhering to Marcos' directives.

"Our aim is to ensure a consistent supply of affordable rice in Mimaropa," he added.

Violators of the rice price cap, set at P41 per kilo for regular-milled and P45 per kilo for well-milled rice, will face penalties as stated in Section 15 and 16 of Republic Act No. 7581.

The penalties include imprisonment for a period of 1 to 10 years and substantial fines ranging from Php5,000 to Php1,000,000.

Doria further encouraged the public to support and cooperate with the implementation of this order.

"We urge the public's cooperation and support in fostering a transparent and inclusive rice market that benefits all stakeholders in the region," Doria emphasized.