Rice supply
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has assured that the rice supply in the Philippines”is sufficient” for the first six months of the year.
Reports said that a total of 750,000 metrics (MT) of imported rice arrived in Manila in December and January, boosting the stockpiles.
And note that the upcoming rice harvest usually peaks in March and April in this nation of rice-eating people.
In the view of many, notably the poor, what is worrisome is the existence of unscrupulous traders, who might try to exploit the situation.
These “economic saboteurs” may use the El Nino phenomenon as an excuse to hoard rice to push prices to “unreasonable high levels.”
And we share the view of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. that “what we need to guard against now are (these) profiteers.”
Of course. the government, through concerned offices and agencies, are out to hit hard at “profiteers and hoarders.
In fact, we believe that it is just a matter time before these heartless and erring traders are identified, arrested and charged in court.
Without doubt, creating an artificial rice shortage, particularly during hard times and emergencies, is revolting to the senses.
The authorities should be commended for ensuring that the people have access to affordable but quality rice throughout the year.
