President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated that the government would not tolerate smugglers plaguing the agriculture sector as the government has already apprehended four rice traders for alleged smuggling and hoarding of rice.

Speaking during the distribution of rice in Taguig on Wednesday, Marcos said the government will not tolerate those who take advantage and harm our livelihood and the entire agricultural sector.

Marcos Jr. cited Republic Act No. 10845, which allows for the imprisonment for life and double fines for those proven to be smuggling agricultural products, including all associated taxes, duties, and charges. He also highlighted Republic Act No. 7581, which imposes heavy penalties on individuals caught illegally stockpiling supplies.

Marcos also said that the government has charged four violators for violating the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, the Rice Tariffication Law, and the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016.

"We have now filed charges against San Pedro Warehouse and Blue Sakura Agri Grain Corporation, F.S. Ostia Rice Mill, and Gold Rush Rice Mill for their actions," Marcos said.

He also emphasized that there is no rice shortage in the country and placed the blame squarely on smugglers, hoarders, and price manipulators for the fluctuating prices.

"You know, there shouldn't be any problem with rice. We have an abundant supply. Our buffer stock, as they say, our reserves are at 30 days, and it's steadily increasing," Marcos said, adding that the country would have more than 70 days of rice buffer after the harvest.

President Marcos Jr. also commended the efforts of ordinary citizens engaged in urban farming initiatives in Taguig. He applauded projects like the BGC Community Farm, situated in the heart of Bonifacio Global City, and the City Farm led by student Anna Beatriz Suavengco, showcasing the cultivation of vegetables in an urban farm in North Signal, Taguig.
The Taguig Agriculture Office was not left out of the President's praise, as he lauded their extensive efforts to promote urban gardening in communities.