By Jumalynne Doctolero

The Department of Agriculture has declared on Monday, a nationwide food security emergency to mitigate the effects of the continuous price increase of rice in the country. 

Under the food security emergency, the Agency will now release rice buffer stocks stored by the National Food Authority (NFA) which is approximately 300,000 metric tons (MT). 

Over 150,000 MT of rice stocks will be discharged in a six-month period or 30,000 MT per month, enabling NFA warehouses to clear out space in preparation for harvest season. 

It will be distributed to government agencies, local government units, and the KADIWA ng Pangulo program, ensuring the affordability of rice to consumers. 

It will be sold at around P36 to P38 per kilogram, prioritizing areas with excessive rice prices. 

With free up space, DFA can also support local farmers by procuring their produced palay to increase the national rice reserve.

According to the declaration, the food security emergency will remain in effect until it is lifted by the DA chief. (JVD/PIA-NCR) 

Published Date: February 12, 2025