Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday reaffirmed his commitment to fight hoarding, profiteering and smuggling of agricultural products, making it a top priority of the House of Representatives, a press release from the House said.
Romualdez reiterated his commitment while expressing deep concern about the widening gap between farmgate and retail prices of essential commodities, especially rice.
He said there will be no letup in the fight against hoarding, profiteering, and smuggling of agricultural products, ensuring fair prices for both farmers and consumers.
“The discrepancy between farmgate and retail prices of basic goods is alarming and warrants immediate attention,” Romualdez said.
“We cannot ignore the plight of our farmers who are struggling to make ends meet, nor can we turn a blind eye to the burden placed on consumers,” he added.
To address this pressing issue, the House Committee on Trade and Industry convened on Monday to receive briefings from relevant government agencies regarding the implementation of laws and programs governing pricing mechanisms and regulations for basic necessities and prime commodities.
The Speaker indicated that the briefing marked the start of a congressional inquiry, in aid of legislation, into the widening gap between farmgate and retail prices of rice and other essential goods.
He noted the stability of farmgate prices for rice, poultry, pork, and onions over the past three months, indicating that there should be no sudden increase in the prices of these items.
The House chief stressed the need for legislative action to protect the interests of both producers and consumers, emphasizing the role of oversight in ensuring a fair and transparent trading environment.
Citing the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, Romualdez urged government agencies, industry representatives, and consumer advocacy groups to actively participate in the investigation and contribute to the formulation of effective policy interventions.*
