MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Agriculture (DA) to employ the surplus collections from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) to support rice farmers, aiming to enhance rice production and supply within the Philippines.
During a recent meeting with DA officials, President Marcos emphasized that the RCEF’s surplus collection, exceeding the stipulated P10 billion requirement, should be allocated to provide essential backing such as drying facilities, mechanization, and equipment support to rice farmers. This measure is intended to ensure and sustain their productivity.
Under Republic Act 11203, commonly known as the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), the revenue generated from rice tariffs is earmarked to fulfill the annual P10 billion requirement for the RCEF. This funding is utilized for programs and projects aimed at boosting the competitiveness and output of rice farmers.
In the same meeting, the President issued a directive to the Department of Interior and Local Government, calling upon all local government units (LGUs) to rationalize the fees and transport costs imposed on motor vehicles involved in the transportation of goods, including rice, while passing through local public roads. This step is aimed at streamlining and expediting the cost-effective transport of rice and other products.
Earlier, President Marcos had issued Executive Order (EO) No. 41 on September 25, prohibiting LGUs from levying toll fees and charges on vehicles transporting goods or merchandise when traversing national roads and other thoroughfares that are not constructed or funded by the LGUs. This move is part of the administration’s broader agenda to significantly reduce transportation and logistics costs, aligning with the 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda’s objectives.
President Marcos has also recently approved the release of PhP12.7 billion, designated for distribution to 2.3 million small-scale rice farmers. Each farmer will receive PhP5,000 as financial assistance through the Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) program, a government initiative.
The President underscored that this financial assistance is part of the government’s multifaceted efforts to support small rice farmers, especially those affected by the lifting of Executive Order No. 39, which imposed mandated price ceilings on regular and well-milled rice.
President Marcos stated, “The removal of that price cap wasn’t done haphazardly; it was part of a comprehensive strategy. We’re also providing assistance, strengthening, and improving our agricultural sector.”
He further added, “We will enhance the benefits of the Rice Tariffication Law and provide our farmers with equipment, tractors, harvesters, and dryers.” (Presidential News Desk)
