Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) has committed to maintaining stable food prices throughout the holiday season. This announcement comes as headline inflation eased to 1.5 percent in November, with a significant 15.4 percent drop in rice prices, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

According to Philippines News Agency, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that government measures are in place to provide affordable food to Filipinos, particularly to assist those in need. The DA has implemented steps to ensure price stability, particularly during the Christmas season when demand increases and price pressures are heightened.

The DA has already launched the PHP20 per kilogram rice initiative under the 'Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na', which is available at 423 sites across 81 provinces. Additionally, the DA is distributing more affordable agricultural products via the nationwide expansion of Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) centers and has set maximum suggested retail prices (MSRPs) for rice and other essential commodities.

Current MSRPs are applicable to imported rice, onions, carrots, and pork. Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized their efforts to support farmers' profitability while maintaining affordability for consumers. The DA is gradually rationalizing the food system despite the vast number of products they monitor.

To ensure a stable supply and prevent price spikes in local markets, the DA has also permitted the importation of onions, carrots, meat, and fish.