Malaca±ang: On Saturday advised local government units (LGUs) to sell the National Food Authority (NFA) rice at PHP33 per kg. instead of PHP35 to ease the consumers' plight.

According to Philippines News Agency, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro referenced the San Juan City LGU's initiative to resell its procured NFA rice to its residents at the original price of PHP33 per kg. During Radyo Pilipinas' Prangkahan Na! program, Castro suggested that San Juan City's practice could be a model for other LGUs, ensuring their constituents have access to affordable staple food.

Castro emphasized the importance of maintaining the original price, stating that if LGUs obtained the rice at PHP33 per kg., they should sell it at the same rate to avoid additional costs to consumers. She advised LGUs to increase their efforts to ensure the rice reaches the public at the intended price.

The NFA rice, purchased by LGUs at PHP33 per kg., is typically suggested to be sold to consumers at PHP35 per kg. However, San Juan City set a precedent by selling the rice at PHP1,650 per sack, equivalent to PHP33 per kg., earning praise for its efforts to make rice more affordable.

NFA Administrator Larry Lacson noted that San Juan City adjusted its distribution strategy, selling 5 kg. to 10 kg. per consumer instead of one sack, to ensure more residents could benefit from the affordable rice. Castro applauded the move to sell smaller packs, making it easier for those who cannot afford higher-priced rice available in local markets.

Concerns were raised about whether buyers from LGUs would ensure the rice reaches those who genuinely need it. Castro reiterated the need for LGUs to work even harder to make affordable rice accessible to all.

On Friday, the NFA urged LGUs to expedite the pullout of rice stocks to free up valuable storage. San Juan City has already begun this process, with Navotas, Cotabato, and Camarines Sur expected to follow suit.