A partylist group is eyeing to file a measure which aims to replicate the province of Nueva Ecija’s success in rice production across the Philippines once the incoming 20th Congress resumes its sessions.
Galing sa Puso (GP) Partylist first nominee Atty. Jan Rurik Padiernos made the announcement following the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) statement that a national food security emergency will be declared by 4 February due to persistently high rice prices despite global price drops and tariff reductions.
He stressed that Nueva Ecija’s proven success in maintaining rice production offers a valuable blueprint for national implementation, which is beneficial for the country in the long run.
"The success of Nueva Ecija in sustaining rice production provides a valuable blueprint that we can replicate nationwide through well-targeted legislative measures," Padiernos said.
He also highlighted the urgent need for improved infrastructure and support for farmers, including access to modern technologies, advanced farming practices and better logistics systems.
"The Philippines must invest in a resilient and sustainable agricultural system that is capable of meeting the growing demands of our people," said Padiernos.
The DA's potential emergency declaration comes after prices in certain areas remain elevated, even with the 35 percent to 15 percent tariff reduction implemented last July under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive.
To recall, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. confirmed that the National Price Coordinating Council has recommended this declaration, which the DA is still reviewing.
If the emergency declaration is issued, the National Food Authority will sell buffer stocks to government agencies and local government units at P36 per kilogram and to consumers at P38 per kilogram.
Under the amended Rice Tariffication Law, the DA is authorized to declare a food security emergency if rice supply shortages or extraordinary price hikes occur.