MARCOS SUSPENDS RICE IMPORTATION FOR 60 DAYS STARTING SEPTEMBER 1

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued an order directing the Department of Agriculture (DA) to lead and monitor the implementation of the 60-day suspension of the importation of regular milled and well-milled rice.

Based on Executive Order 93 signed by President Marcos on August 29 but only made public Saturday, August 30, rice imports will be suspended from Sept. 1 to Oct. 30, unless shortened or extended.

The 60-day suspension does not cover specialty rice varieties not commonly produced by local farmers.

“The DA is hereby directed to lead and monitor the implementation of the suspension of rice importation, and undertake necessary measures to ensure that the country’s supply of rice remains sufficient during the period of suspension, subject to existing laws, rules and regulations,” the order read.

The order cited the agriculture department saying that there is a need to suspend the importation of rice during the peak of harvest season “to enable the domestic market to absorb the local supply, stabilize prices, and help Filipino farmers sell their palay at a fair and reasonable price”.

Under EO 93, the DA must work with the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and submit comprehensive reports on domestic rice supply and prevailing market prices.

The three agencies are required to convene within 30 days of the EO’s effectivity to assess its impact and recommend to the President whether to lift or extend the suspension.

The period of suspension may be shortened or extended, as may be necessary, upon the joint recommendation of the DA, DEPDev and the DTI.