Romualdez wants stricter price control to avert rice crisis

Speaker Martin Romualdez

MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Martin Romualdez called for a “whole of nation approach” to solving the rice crisis.

In a statement on Wednesday, Romualdez also urged stricter price controls in the retail market in order to prevent price manipulation and protect consumers.

READ: More cuts to rice tariffs urged to tame inflation

He likewise echoed Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr.’s suggestion to sell low-priced fish, chicken, and other agricultural produce in Kadiwa centers.

“Our goal is to lower food prices while protecting local farmers and producers. We hope to do this by increasing local procurement and adjusting import tariffs,” Romualdez said in a statement.

READ: Salceda reminds gov’t anew: Rice is key to battling inflation

Meanwhile, he commended Finance Sec. Ralph Recto for “fulfilling their agreement” to reduce rice tariffs, which targets a  P50 per kilo price.

Despite the planned tariff reduction, Romualdez assured the farmers that they would still receive support from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund.