Rice imports
PALAY production in the Philippines may fall short of the target this year.
This is due to the widespread destruction suffered by the agriculture sector as a result of the series of storms that ravaged the country.
In fact, the Philippines is expected to import more rice this year due to losses from these weather disturbances.
Even farmers admitted the production losses, prompting them to ask for subsidies to cover the losses, if not to boost production.
Ex-Agriculture Undersecretary Leocadio Sebastian conceded that even before Storm Kristine hit the country, palay production already slumped.
He explained that the country needs to maintain a good ending rice stock balance to ensure sufficient supply ahead of the lean months.
The volume of rice imports entering the country is placed at 4.2 million metric tons by year-end, according to reports.
The substantial losses from typhoons and storms demands the importation of more rice, the Filipinos’ staple food.
This, if we want to ensure that rice prices are not beyond the reach of the poor, who comprise the bulk of the population.
Particularly during the lean months.
