MANILA, Philippines -- US ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenney on Wednesday pledged American rice exports to Manila to help ensure supplies amid soaring prices of the key Filipino staple.

"We will always make our supplies available for export if the Philippines needs rice supplies," the envoy told reporters on the sidelines of a public ceremony commemorating the World War II dead near Manila.

Manila, the world's top rice importer, has announced plans to import up to 2.7 million tons this year even as prices soared to near-historical levels amid tight global supplies.

Initial imports this year have come from Thailand, Vietnam and Pakistan.

The United States exported 4.6 million tons of rice in 2004, according to the latest available figures provided by the Philippines-based International Rice Research Institute.

Kenney said Washington was also helping Manila out through rice research, "so yes, you can count on us."

President Gloria Arroyo, speaking at the same ceremony, said "the global rise in the price of basic commodities like fuel and rice is putting a strain on all hardworking Filipinos."

She pledged to ensure adequate supply of the cereal.

Analysts have warned major rice importers that soaring prices could lead to social unrest and pose security problems. The Philippine government has deployed police and military to crack down on rice hoarders.