President Marcos Orders Suspension of Rice Importation
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced a suspension of rice importation for 60 days starting September 1, aiming to support local farmers facing low palay prices this harvest season. This decisive move to halt rice imports seeks to protect the livelihoods of Filipino farmers struggling in the current market.
According to sources, the Presidential Communications Office shared this update, highlighting the government’s commitment to helping agricultural producers amid challenging conditions. The rice importation suspension will remain in effect until the end of October 2025.
Unemployment Rate Drops to Lowest in 2025
The Philippine Statistics Authority reported a decrease in the unemployment count, with 1.95 million Filipinos unemployed in June, down from 2.03 million in May. This translates to a 3.7 percent jobless rate, marking the lowest level seen this year and indicating a positive trend in employment.
Local analysts noted this decline as a sign of gradual economic recovery, with more job opportunities becoming available across various sectors. Despite challenges, the labor market shows encouraging signs of improvement.
Senator Questions GSIS Investment in Online Gambling
Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros raised concerns about the Government Service Insurance System’s (GSIS) investment choices after reports surfaced that over P1 billion of its funds were placed in online gambling ventures. She asked, “Why did the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) invest in online gambling?”
Critics argue that such investments may pose risks to public funds and question the prudence of engaging in the online gambling industry. The issue has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability in managing government pension funds.
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