Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Tuesday urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) and other relevant agencies to expedite the drafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the amendments to the Agricultural Tariffication Act, recently signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a press release from the House of Representatives said.
This, he emphasized, is crucial for the immediate enforcement of the law’s provisions to stabilize rice prices, combat hoarding, and support Filipino farmers.
“The swift implementation of this law is non-negotiable. Our people, especially ordinary Filipinos, need to feel its benefits as soon as possible. I call on the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its attached agencies to prioritize the drafting of the IRR and ensure that it is completed within 30 days,” Romualdez said.
He explained that the IRR serves as the roadmap for implementing the law, outlining specific actions, responsibilities, and timelines to operationalize its key provisions.
The Speaker highlighted that the IRR will enable government agencies to act swiftly in stabilizing rice prices and combating manipulative practices in the market.
“With the IRR in place, the Department of Agriculture can immediately enforce provisions to regulate warehouse operations, prevent hoarding, and ensure that the National Food Authority maintains optimal rice buffer stocks sourced from local farmers. This will protect consumers from sudden price spikes and guarantee a stable rice supply,” he said.
For Filipino farmers, the IRR will ensure timely implementation of programs funded under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), which has been extended until 2031.
Romualdez also underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in drafting and implementing the IRR.
The Speaker assured the public that the House of Representatives will closely monitor the progress of the IRR’s formulation and implementation to ensure that the objectives of the law are achieved.*
