RETAILERS’ compliance with the P50 per kilogram (kg) price cap on imported rice in Metro Manila has expanded to 63 percent, Agriculture spokesperson Arnel de Mesa said on Tuesday.
De Mesa said this was an improvement, though he did not mention previous rates, noting instead that initial compliance was low due to high costs from traders.
Earlier this month, Malacañang issued Executive Order 118 mandating a P50/kg price ceiling on 5-percent broken premium imported rice for 30 days.
Five-percent broken premium imported rice is a high-quality, whole-kernel milled rice (mostly from Vietnam or Thailand) that is a highly sought-after grade globally for its texture, cleanliness and sensory eating experience.
The price cap is being enforced through continuous spot checks or surprise inspections in markets across the country, the Agriculture Department said.
The agency is also conducting a nationwide information campaign, engaging market administrators and retailers by circulating copies of EO 118 and other materials.
De Mesa assured the public that the DA is continuously working with the Department of Trade and Industry, the Philippine National Police, and local government units to ensure the strict enforcement of the price cap.
The DA is likewise helping to lower rice prices in the market through the expanded rollout of the government’s P20/kg rice or the Benteng Bigas, Meron Na! program, as well as various initiatives to assist local rice farmers.
The agency is targeting to open 1,500 Benteng Bigas sites across the country.
On the issue of having a suggested retail price (SRP) for local rice, de Mesa said the DA would call for a consultative meeting with stakeholders.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. previously said the DA is considering a P53/kg SRP for the commodity.
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