THE Department of Agriculture (DA) anticipates a better rice harvest this year.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. made this announcement during a rice distribution event held in Iriga City, Camarines Sur over the weekend.
President Marcos emphasized the need for the government to continue implementing programs that will further develop the sector to ensure food security even with a bountiful harvest.
“The Department of Agriculture says that our harvest this year is bigger than last year, so it seems that production is going well,” according to Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.
President Marcos expressed hope that Filipinos would soon feel the impact of improved production in the agricultural sector.
Regarding the implementation of price ceilings on rice, Marcos stated in a media interview in Iriga City that with the start of the harvest season, rice prices in the market will likely decrease.
“I believe that when the harvest arrives, because we are already beginning to harvest, we will see prices decrease. Market forces. If the market itself lowers prices, we may be able to reduce the controls we have implemented,” President Marcos added.
President Marcos also mentioned the immediate need to implement measures, such as imposing price caps, providing cash aid to rice retailers, and establishing a new price range for the purchase of rice for the National Food Authority (NFA) to support farmers and ensure inventory.
