In the NBI’s continuing efforts to support the President’s campaign against rice hoarders and agricultural smugglers, NBI Director Judge Jaime B. Santiago (Ret.) met with representatives of the Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM) of Bocaue, Bulacan, on February 27, 2025, at the NBI Main Office in Pasay City.
Orly Manuntag, co-founder of PRISM, explained that the recent operations conducted by the NBI and other law enforcement agencies against rice hoarders raised concerns among legitimate rice millers and importers in their area in Bulacan. This prompted them to seek the guidance of the NBI directly.
In response, Santiago assured the dealers/millers that the NBI values the observance of the rule of law and due process in all its operations. The director maintained that the NBI’s operatives should not exert undue pressure or harassment on legitimate businesses.
In particular, Santiago directed that no operation relating to rice and agricultural smuggling shall proceed without the strict review and approval of the Assistant Director of Intelligence Service, Assistant Director of Investigation Service and the Director himself.
After a brief discussion on the price, the Bulacan rice millers agreed to sell rice at Php35.00 per kilo to express support for the government’s efforts towards rice stability and sustainability.
At Santiago’s request, the PRISM members also committed to reporting any rice smuggling or illegal rice activities within their area to the NBI.