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NPC lauds Speaker’s legislative achievements

January 6, 2025 Jester P. Manalastas 130 views

THE leadership Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has propelled the House of Representatives to exceptional legislative achievements, driving game-changing reforms of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.

This is according to Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), adding that these legislative works have uplifted the farmer’s living condition; secure food supplies, and lay the foundation for a prosperous and inclusive Bagong Pilipinas.

Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga said, chair of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food and spokesperson of the NPC, credited Speaker Romualdez’s purpose-driven leadership for strengthening the House supermajority and delivering laws of President Marcos that address the Filipino people’s most urgent needs.

“Speaker Romualdez’s leadership is the cornerstone of the House’s historic achievements. His ability to inspire unity and focus on results has made the 19th Congress a key partner of President Marcos in delivering the Bagong Pilipinas vision,” Enverga said.

He noted the passage of Republic Act (RA) No. 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, which classifies agricultural smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, and cartel operations as economic sabotage punishable by life imprisonment and steep fines.

“This law is a game-changer for our farmers and all Filipinos who rely on affordable food. It dismantles the decades-long control of cartels and manipulators in the supply chain,” he said.

Enverga credited Speaker Romualdez for prioritizing the measure. “Through Speaker Romualdez’s decisive leadership, we acted swiftly to protect our farmers, uphold market integrity, and secure our nation’s food supply.”

He also underscored the impact of RA 12078, which amends the Rice Tariffication Law to extend the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) until 2031 and increase its annual allocation from P10 billion to P30 billion.

“This law demonstrates our commitment to empowering rice farmers. Tripling RCEF funding equips them with the tools and resources to compete globally while ensuring rice availability for every household,” Enverga said.

The law also authorizes the Department of Agriculture (DA) to import rice during emergencies caused by shortages or price surges, provided local supply is inadequate.

“This balanced approach, championed under Speaker Romualdez’s guidance, addresses food security concerns while protecting local farmers,” Enverga explained.

The NPC stalwart praised the Speaker for uniting the House supermajority coalition, which includes the NPC, to pass 61 of the 64 priority measures identified by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

He also commended Speaker Romualdez for ensuring accountability in implementing agricultural and social programs.

“Speaker Romualdez’s commitment to good governance guarantees that the laws we pass are implemented effectively and benefit those who need them the most,” Enverga said.

As the country moves forward, Enverga called for sustained collaboration to maximize the impact of these reforms.