House Speaker Champions Institutionalize P20 Rice Program
House Speaker Martin Romualdez reaffirmed his strong commitment on June 4 to institutionalize President Marcos’ P20 per kilo rice program. He promised to use the necessary legislative power to ensure the program’s permanence and effectiveness.
Romualdez met with Department of Agriculture officials, including Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. and Undersecretary Alvin John Balagbag. During the meeting, the Speaker pledged to personally sponsor and advocate for the department’s priority reform bills in the upcoming 20th Congress. These bills aim to create lasting improvements in the agriculture sector and make affordable rice a consistent reality for Filipino families.
“These are not just bills — they are blueprints for lasting change. I will personally sponsor these measures to institutionalize President Marcos’ vision of affordable rice for all and stronger support for our farmers,” Romualdez said.
Priority Legislative Measures for Agriculture Reform
The Department of Agriculture presented several key bills that are now top priorities for the 20th Congress. These include:
1. Amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law to restore regulatory powers to the National Food Authority (NFA), stabilizing prices and protecting local farmers.
2. Livestock Development and Competitiveness Act.
3. Philippine Corn Industry Development Act.
4. Onion Research Center Act.
5. Amendments to the Seed Industry Development Act of 1992.
6. Amendments to the Local Government Code to enhance agricultural extension services at the local government level.
Romualdez emphasized the importance of these reforms, stating, “These measures are critical to transforming our food system—from farm to market—and ensuring no Filipino is left hungry or helpless amid price shocks.”
Ensuring Affordable Rice Beyond Today
Regarding the P20-kilo rice program, the Speaker insisted that legislation offers the strongest foundation to make the initiative permanent. He underlined that the ₱20 per kilo rice is more than just a price point; it is a national promise that demands bold reforms in agriculture, pricing, and rural development.
“Sisiguruhin natin na may ₱20 per kilo na bigas sa merkado para sa mga nangangailangan — hindi lang ngayon, kundi sa mga susunod pang taon. We will build a system where affordable rice is not a seasonal miracle, but a daily reality,” Romualdez declared.
To achieve this, Romualdez stressed the need to uplift farmers. “We cannot ask them to feed the nation without feeding their hopes. These laws will give them better seeds, tools, market access, and dignity.”
Collaboration for Lasting Impact
The House Speaker praised the Department of Agriculture officials for outlining a clear, actionable roadmap for reform. He assured them of the House’s steadfast partnership to deliver meaningful results for both producers and consumers.
“Whether you’re a farmer in the fields of Isabela or a mother budgeting for the week in Metro Manila, this program is for you. Together, we will deliver affordable rice, a stronger agriculture sector, and a future where no Filipino is left behind,” Romualdez concluded.
For more news and updates on agriculture reform, visit Filipinokami.com.