Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued Executive Order (EO) 93, directing the Department of Agriculture (DA) to oversee and monitor the 60-day suspension of the importation of regular milled and well-milled rice.
According to Philippines News Agency, the EO signed on August 29 specifies that the suspension will occur from September 1 to October 30, subject to potential adjustments. The suspension excludes specialty rice varieties not commonly produced by local farmers. The order mandates the DA to ensure the nation's rice supply remains adequate during this period, in compliance with existing laws and regulations.
EO 93 requires the DA to collaborate with the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). These departments must provide comprehensive reports on the domestic rice supply and current market prices. The agencies are tasked to convene within 30 days of the EO's implementation to evaluate its impact and advise the President on whether to terminate or prolong the suspension.
The EO allows for the suspension period to be adjusted based on the joint recommendation of the DA, DEPDev, and DTI. Within 30 days of the order's effectivity, these agencies are expected to assess the suspension's impact on rice supply and prices and submit their recommendations to the President through the Executive Secretary within 15 days.
Immediate issuance of necessary guidelines by the DA, in collaboration with the Bureau of Customs and the DTI, is mandated to ensure the suspension order's effective implementation.
The DA, on August 8, attributed the decline in rice prices to robust local production and significant rice imports in previous months, spurred by reduced tariff rates. The DA recommended the suspension to coincide with the peak harvest season, allowing the domestic market to absorb local supply, stabilize prices, and support Filipino farmers in selling their palay at fair prices.
EO 93, disclosed to the public on Saturday, becomes effective immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
