The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) jointly launched a rice price monitoring effort to assess the potential impact of tariff reduction on imported rice under Executive Order (EO) 62.
“Recognizing rice as a staple in the Filipino diet, the DTI is steadfast in monitoring and analyzing rice price fluctuations. These data-driven reports will inform policymakers’ decisions to ensure stable rice supply, distribution, and pricing,” said DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual, who also chairs the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC).
The DTI will lead the price monitoring initiative that will cover supermarkets, hypermarkets, grocery stores and wet markets nationwide.
It builds upon similar efforts implemented after the lifting of temporary price ceilings under EO 39.
The NPCC is a crucial government body composed of representatives from various sectors. It plays a key role in coordinating national efforts to stabilize prices of essential goods, including rice.
Pascual commended Congress for its unwavering support in maintaining price stability and food security.
He recognized House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Representatives Ferjenel Biron, Mark Enverga and Erwin Tulfo for their dedication to protecting consumer interests and combating hoarding, profiteering, and smuggling.
“We at the DTI deeply appreciate the tireless work of these legislators in holding price manipulators and violators accountable. Their actions align perfectly with our mission to empower and care for consumers while fostering fair competition for legitimate businesses,” Pascual said.
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