HOUSE Speaker Martin G. Romualdez welcomed the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) move to set the National Food Authority (NFA) rice price at P35 per kilo, emphasizing that it will help strengthen food security for Filipinos.
However, he stressed that while affordability is crucial, the government must also ensure that farmers receive fair compensation to sustain local rice production.
Balancing Consumer Needs and Farmer Welfare
“Ensuring that rice remains affordable is crucial for consumers. However, we must also make sure our farmers are fairly compensated for their hard work,” Romualdez stated.
He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that benefits both consumers and producers.
“Ang ideal na sitwasyon ay mapanatili ang mataas na farmgate price na nagbibigay ng tamang kita para sa ating mga magsasaka habang sinisiguro na ang presyo ng bigas sa merkado ay abot-kaya para sa mga mamimili,” he said.
Congress to Closely Monitor Implementation
Romualdez assured the public that Congress will closely monitor the pricing strategy’s implementation and assess if further government interventions are needed.
“We will observe how this policy unfolds and determine if adjustments, such as subsidies or targeted assistance programs, are necessary to prevent losses for farmers while keeping rice affordable for the public,” he explained.
Call for Strong Coordination and Open Dialogue
The Speaker urged strong coordination between the DA, NFA, and lawmakers to ensure the policy does not inadvertently harm local rice production.
“I encourage the Department of Agriculture and the National Food Authority to work closely with Congress to make sure this policy does not discourage local farmers,” he said.
He also called for continuous assessment of the policy’s impact, noting, “Patuloy nating susuriin ang epekto ng patakarang ito upang masiguro na walang sektor ang napapabayaan.”
Romualdez further encouraged open dialogue among agriculture stakeholders to address concerns promptly.
“It’s essential that all parties communicate openly to resolve any issues that may arise,” he said, reiterating Congress’ readiness to make necessary policy adjustments.
Commitment to Food Security
Romualdez reaffirmed the ultimate goal of ensuring food security in a way that benefits both farmers and consumers.
“Alam natin na hindi madali ang pagsabayin ang interes ng mga magsasaka at mamimili, ngunit ito ay mahalaga para sa ating ekonomiya at seguridad sa pagkain,” he stated.
He concluded by expressing Congress’ commitment to solutions that support farmers while guaranteeing affordable rice for all Filipinos.
“Kung kinakailangan ng pagbabago sa polisiya, handa kaming magbigay ng suporta upang matiyak na ang bawat Pilipino, lalo na ang mga magsasaka, ay makikinabang sa repormang ito.”
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