Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. assured the public that the quality of National Food Authority (NFA) rice, set to hit the market soon, has significantly improved.

In a radio interview on Tuesday, Laurel said the NFA rice being sold through Kadiwa outlets since mid-2024 has consistently maintained good quality.

"It's the same rice — no complaints so far. I can personally vouch that the quality of NFA rice is now much better," he said in Filipino.

To ensure quality, Laurel explained that the DA has strengthened its control and assurance measures. He admitted that while no system is perfect and occasional rejections may happen, strict protocols are in place to catch any issues before reaching consumers.

"What’s important is that any substandard rice is intercepted at our warehouses, and only high-quality rice reaches the public," he emphasized.

Laurel also highlighted the importance of the "first in, first out" policy in managing rice stocks, stressing that the NFA primarily purchases palay (unmilled rice).

He also emphasized the importance of "first in, first out" basis of the rice sold to the public. "Ang binibili ng NFA ay palay," he said. The shelf life of unmilled rice can last up for a year, whereas milled rice can only be stored and consumed within three to four months.

To help maintain rice quality and clear warehouse stocks quickly, especially with the ongoing harvest season, the DA has set a purchasing limit of 40 kilograms per family per month.

The rice being sold to consumers is already milled and ready for immediate consumption.

Laurel spearheaded the ceremonial tasting of the P20-per-kilogram rice, ahead of its official rollout in Cebu on 1 May and in eight Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) sites across Metro Manila on 2 May.

Initial target sites for the Metro Manila launch include KNP Centers located in Quezon City, Manila, Marikina, Navotas, Valenzuela, and Las Piñas.