Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday lauded the signing of the amended Agricultural Tariffication Act into law, describing it as a groundbreaking measure that strengthens the government’s capacity to ensure rice price stability, empower Filipino farmers, and secure the nation’s food supply, a press release from the House of Representatives said.
“This is a landmark legislation that directly addresses the most pressing concerns of ordinary Filipinos: rising rice prices, food security, and the welfare of our farmers. It underscores our collective commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Philippines,” Romualdez, a principal author of the law, said.
Romualdez credited President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his decisive leadership and genuine concern for the Filipino people, which he said were the driving forces behind the swift passage of this measure.
The law strengthens the regulatory powers of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to combat hoarding, price manipulation, and other market abuses that lead to price spikes. It also provides the DA with a P5-billion buffer fund for food security emergencies and extends the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) until 2031, with an annual allocation of P30 billion to support farmers through mechanization, seed propagation, and other agricultural programs.
The Speaker emphasized that the law is a direct response to concerns of ordinary Filipinos who struggle with rising food prices and economic challenges.
The law also mandates the National Food Authority (NFA) to maintain rice buffer stocks sourced exclusively from local farmers, ensuring both food security and livelihood support for the agricultural sector.
Romualdez commended President Marcos for his relentless focus on addressing the most critical issues facing Filipino families.
The Speaker also highlighted the President’s leadership in prioritizing food security as a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda.
Romualdez expressed his gratitude to his colleagues in Congress and stakeholders for their hard work in crafting and passing the law.
“This is a shining example of what we can achieve when the Executive and Legislative branches work together for the welfare of the Filipino people. It proves that by prioritizing the needs of our countrymen, we can make a lasting impact,” he said.
He assured the public that the House of Representatives remains committed to enacting pro-people laws and supporting President Marcos’ vision for a stronger, more prosperous nation.*
