Tulfo seeks amendments to Rice Tariffication Law
SOMEONE is benefitting from the lower rice tariff but definitely not the public.
This was pointed out by House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo as he called for the amendments to the Philippine Rice Tariffication Law.
According to Tulfo, there is a growing disparity between local demand and the prices that are affordable to ordinary Filipino despite the reduction of import tariff by the President last July.
The amendments, Tulfo added, is to stabilize the rice supply and prices as well as to prevent sharp increases.
He took note that despite the reduction on import tariffs, the price of imported rice remained at P50-P60 per kilo in the market.
The solon added that relying solely on the private sector is not enough to address the needs of the people.
Under the proposal, the government would allow importation of rice to compete with the existing private imports, like the National Food Authority (NFA).
Tulfo suggested that government imported rice will be distributed through licensed Kadiwa outlets nationwide.
“Kadiwa outlets, known for selling affordable produce directly to consumers, are ideal mechanisms for delivering lower-cost rice to the public. This approach would enhance food security and ensure that we have a reliable, affordable source of rice,” Tulfo further said.
He also said that by empowering the Department of Agriculture (DA) to import rice, the government can create a balanced market where prices reflect the needs of consumers and limit undue price increases.
Tulfo asked the government to ensure that ordinary people are not left vulnerable to market fluctuations, hoarding and profiteering by some.
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