Romualdez eyes legislation to make P20-per-kilo rice sustainable
Speaker Martin Romualdez said Wednesday that he will sponsor at least six measures to ensure that the provision of the P20 per kilo rice will become permanent.
Romualdez made the announcement after his meeting with Agriculture Secretary Francisco 'Kiko' Tiu Laurel Jr. and Agriculture Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Alvin John Balagbag, assuring support to the following priority measures that the Department of Agriculture (DA) deems essential to make the P20 per kilo permanent:
amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) by restoring key regulatory powers to the National Food Authority (NFA) to stabilize prices and protect local production
Livestock Development and Competitiveness Act
Philippine Corn Industry Development Act
Onion Research Center Act
Amendments to Republic Act 7308 or the Seed Industry Development Act of 1992 and
Amendments to the Local Government Code to strengthen agricultural extension services at the LGU level.
'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.
'Legislation is the strongest tool we have to make this program permanent. Sisiguruhin natin na may P20 per kilo na bigas sa merkado para sa mga nangangailangan. We will build a system where affordable rice is not a seasonal miracle, but a daily reality,' Romualdez added.
(We will ensure that P20 per kilo rice will be available for those in need.)
Also present during the meeting include: House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Mark Enverga of Quezon, House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe of Zamboanga city, Deputy Speaker David 'Jay-jay' Suarez of Quezon, Camiguin Representative Jurdin Jesus Romualdo, Surigao del Sur Representative Johnny Pimentel, Deputy Speaker Antonio 'Tonypet' Albano of Isabela, House Secretary General Reginald 'Reggie' Velasco, and Isabela Governor Rodito Albano III.
Romualdez said that the farmers cannot be asked to feed the nation when they are deprived of better seeds, tools, market access, and dignity.'
'Together, we will deliver affordable rice, a stronger agriculture sector, and a future where no Filipino is left behind. Ang P20 kada kilo ng bigas ay hindi lang pangarap. Sa tulong ng batas, determinasyon, at pagkakaisa, gagawin natin itong permanente at tuloy-tuloy,' he added.
(The P20 per kilo of rice is not a dream. With the help of the law and our efforts, it will become permanent.) –NB, GMA Integrated News
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