By Darryl John Esguerra.

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday signed into law a measure seeking to amend the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) as the government moves to ensure stable food supply and lower rice prices.

In his speech in Malacañang, Marcos said Republic Act (RA) 12078, or the Agricultural Tariffication Act, will extend the implementation of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) until 2031 and increase its funding from PHP10 billion to PHP30 billion annually.

“This will enable us to do much more for our farmers, ensuring that they have the resources they need to succeed and to make the rice industry even more competitive,” Marcos said.

The additional funding is set to support priority projects such as training and extension services, financial assistance to rice farmers tilling up to two hectares of land, expanded rice credit assistance, composting facilities for biodegradable wastes, pest and disease management, soil health improvement, farming support programs on contract farming, and establishment of solar-powered irrigation systems.

This law also intends to further enhance the Seed Program and the Mechanization Program which will provide more farmers access to high-quality seeds to boost their yields.

Marcos said the new law would also strengthen the regulatory function of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to strictly oversee the rice industry’s systems and its policies, ensuring that the rice reaching the markets have complied with quality standards and regulations.

“In cases of sudden rice shortages or price hikes, the DA will now be empowered to take the necessary actions to stabilize the market. This will help ensure that the price of rice remains affordable and accessible to every Filipino,” he said.

“The Bureau of Plant Industry will also be able to inspect rice warehouses and manage a national database to track grain storage, safeguarding our food supply and ensuring its safety for the public.”

Marcos said the ATA would empower farmers “to thrive and help our country secure a stable food supply.”

“By increasing investments in agriculture, providing more resources, and creating a more competitive rice industry, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more self- sufficient Philippines,” the President said.

Landmark law

Speaker Martin Romualdez said the landmark measure directly addresses the most pressing concerns of ordinary Filipinos, as it aims to stabilize rice prices, support farmers and ensure food security.

“Muling pinatunayan ni Pangulong Marcos ang kanyang malasakit sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Ang batas na ito ay isang matibay na hakbang upang tugunan ang isyu ng inflation, lalo na sa presyo ng bigas, na pangunahing pagkain sa bawat hapag-kainan (President Marcos has once again proven his compassion for every Filipino family. This law is a solid step in addressing inflation, especially in rice prices, the staple food on every dining table),” Romualdez said in a statement.

He described the law as a “victory” for every Filipino household, emphasizing its role in keeping rice affordable and accessible while enhancing the competitiveness and productivity of local farmers.

“Malinaw ang mensahe ng Pangulo: walang Pilipinong dapat magutom o maghirap dahil sa mataas na presyo ng bigas. Ang batas na ito ay sagot sa matagal nang hiling ng ating mga magsasaka at mamimili (The President’s message is clear: no Filipino should go hungry or suffer due to high rice prices. This law addresses the long-standing demands of our farmers and consumers),” Romualdez said.

Romualdez said the law reflects President Marcos’ vision for a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines).

“It aligns with his goal of protecting the welfare of ordinary Filipinos while empowering key sectors like agriculture. His leadership inspires all of us in the House of Representatives to work even harder for meaningful reforms,” Romualdez said.

He assured the public that the House of Representatives remains committed to enacting pro-people legislation and supporting Marcos’ vision for a prosperous nation.

“Patuloy tayong magsusulong ng mga repormang magdadala ng kaginhawaan sa bawat Pilipino. Sama-sama nating itataguyod ang Bagong Pilipinas na pinangungunahan ng ating mahal na Pangulo (We will continue to push for reforms that bring relief to every Filipino. Together, we will uphold a New Philippines led by our beloved President),” Romualdez said. (with Filane Mikee Cervantes/PNA)

Published Date: December 9, 2024