MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. made a commitment to prioritize the growth of the rice industry while ensuring the welfare of both farmers and consumers in his address at the 6th International Rice Congress on Monday.
Speaking at the congress, President Marcos emphasized the Philippines’ continuous efforts to address rice-related concerns through a comprehensive scientific approach.
“We will spare no effort to ensure the growth of the rice industry here in our country even as we safeguard the welfare of farmers and consumers alike. We will do everything to pursue and punish those who are involved in smuggling and hoarding. We will make them pay for their wrongful actions and remedy the situation,” President Marcos declared.
He also stressed the commitment to modernize the agricultural sector through open dialogues and consultations with farmers and agriculture experts.
President Marcos urged public and private sectors to continue collaborating with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and its partners to bolster the country’s rice industry.
In his speech, President Marcos shared the government’s initiatives to address challenges related to rice prices and supply, attributed to natural disasters and illegal activities by smugglers and hoarders.
He emphasized the power of unity, encouraging government agencies and private sector partners to work with IRRI and its collaborators to find innovative solutions for a more robust rice industry.
The government has been providing support to Filipino farmers through the National Rice Program and the Rice Competitive Enhancement Fund, including the Rice Farmers Financial Assistance. Collaborations with IRRI and foreign governments aim to ensure a steady rice supply and enhance the sharing of crucial technologies and strategies.
President Marcos stressed the significance of rice in the Philippines, beyond its role as food, highlighting the country’s aspiration for agricultural transformation.
This year’s Rice Congress theme is “Accelerating Transformation of Rice-Based Food Systems: From Gene to Globe.” The first edition of the congress was held in Beijing, China in 2022, followed by editions in New Delhi, India (2006); Hanoi, Vietnam (2010); Bangkok, Thailand (2014); and Singapore (2018).
