By Panay News

AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has expressed confidence in the country’s food security, assuring the public that government measures are effectively stabilizing the rice supply despite the dual pressures of rising global oil prices and farm input costs.

During a recent briefing, Tiu Laurel firmly pushed back against allegations raised in recent hearings suggesting that imported rice is being utilized for the government’s P20-per-kilo rice program.

“Totally not true,” the Department of Agriculture (DA) secretary stated, emphasizing that the initiative currently relies exclusively on rice purchased by the National Food Authority (NFA) from local farmers. This strategy, he noted, is designed to ensure consumer affordability while directly supporting domestic producers. However, he did not rule out the future use of imported rice for the program should domestic production face a severe, unexpected contraction.

The DA chief noted that projections of a 20 percent decline in palay production represent “worst-case scenarios,” particularly if no interventions are made. With government action already underway, such outcomes are not seen as inevitable.

The current indicators point to a comfortable supply position. The Philippines continues to benefit from strong global rice availability, with major exporters such as India and Vietnam in peak harvest season.

Locally, NFA warehouses are nearly full, backed by a solid domestic harvest.

“If ever there will be a problem, it’s not going to be this year,” the secretary said, indicating that 2026 supply remains secure.

The DA has also moved quickly to cushion the impact of rising costs.

Within days of escalating tensions in the Middle East that drove oil prices higher, the agency rolled out a P10-billion assistance package for farmers and fisherfolk, alongside fuel subsidies and targeted interventions. Rice was prioritized, followed by other key commodities, reflecting a focused and phased response strategy.

Tiu Laurel said the government is ready to scale up support if needed. Estimates point to an additional P20 billion for farm inputs and P10 billion for fisherfolk assistance to further strengthen production and livelihoods. These proposed measures aim not only to offset cost pressures but also to sustain output levels.

The DA chief concluded by underscoring the government’s readiness to maintain market stability through “calibrated importation” when necessary — ensuring an ample national supply without undermining the livelihoods of local producers. Overall, the DA maintains that early intervention and strong inventory levels will continue to protect both farmers and consumers in the months ahead.

Published Date: April 21, 2026