Department of Agriculture Pushes for Rice Tariffication Law Amendments
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is determined to have the proposed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law passed ahead of the next harvest season starting March 2026. This timeline is crucial to ensure the rice sector can benefit from the reforms without delay.
“Our target is to get these proposed amendments to the RTL enacted before the start of the harvest season, which begins in March next year,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel shared recently. The department aims to modernize the rice industry through these legislative changes, addressing current challenges that threaten its stability.
Addressing Key Challenges in the Rice Industry
During a briefing on August 11, Secretary Tiu Laurel and Senator Kiko Pangilinan discussed the pressing risks facing the rice sector. Officials noted that the industry contends with cheaper, higher-quality imports, shifting consumer preferences, unregulated importation, and a decline in milling and drying capacities.
These factors collectively hamper local farmers’ competitiveness and the sector’s overall sustainability. Community members and local leaders stressed the urgency of reform to protect the livelihoods of Filipino farmers and ensure food security.
Senate Resolution Calls for Swift Legislative Action
Senator Pangilinan, who filed a Senate resolution to review and revise the Rice Tariffication Law, emphasized the need for Congress to act swiftly. “We must act quick to implement these amendments before the current administration ends,” he stated, highlighting the limited timeframe available.
The senator’s resolution aligns with the DA’s goal to modernize the rice industry and shield it from external pressures. Officials reported that a coordinated effort between the Senate and the Department of Agriculture is key to achieving this objective.
Collaboration Between Senate and Agriculture Department
Secretary Tiu Laurel expressed confidence following Senator Pangilinan’s visit, noting that it strengthened the partnership between the executive branch and the legislature. “With this visit of Senator Pangilinan, we are confident we can secure the backing of the Senate for these amendments… ensuring a better future for our hardworking farmers and fisherfolk,” he said.
Moreover, the agriculture chief underlined the importance of securing President Marcos’s support. “If we can convince President Marcos to certify a bill that includes all these amendments as urgent, then we should get this passed sooner,” he added, signaling hope for expedited approval.
Looking Ahead: A Modernized Rice Industry
As the proposed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law advance, stakeholders remain optimistic about the positive changes they could bring. The modernization efforts seek to strengthen local production, regulate imports effectively, and enhance infrastructure for milling and drying.
These reforms aim to empower the rice sector, improve farmer incomes, and ultimately secure the nation’s food supply against evolving market challenges.
For more news and updates on rice industry reforms, visit Filipinokami.com.
