Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) has taken a significant step by forming a technical working group (TWG) to oversee rice importation, aiming to stabilize both the supply and prices of rice in local markets. DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel emphasized the urgency of this initiative, underscoring the need for speed and discipline given the time of year.
According to Philippines News Agency, the TWG aims to ensure that rice import volumes are managed in a way that tempers retail prices without overwhelming the supply from local producers. The group is tasked with enhancing oversight functions related to rice importation, moving towards a license-based access system verified by performance, rather than relying on ad hoc approvals.
The TWG will address information related to regional deficits, buffer stocks, and real-time stock levels. A two-layer system will be developed to balance equity and efficiency, focusing not only on the volume of rice imported but also on the delivery timeline and target locations down to provincial and regional market levels.
Future import volumes will be managed through a calibrated system, with province-specific pricing expected as a result. The TWG plans to meet weekly to formulate policy recommendations, with the DA aiming to finalize its import policy by May. A more structured importation system is anticipated later in the year.
The TWG will include representatives from the DA-Office of Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development, Food Terminal Inc. (FTI), and the Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM), among others.
