House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday praised President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after he signed the amended Agricultural Tariffication Act into law.
As one of the principal authors of the Act, Romualdez described the signing as a groundbreaking step that enhances the government’s ability to regulate rice prices, fulfilling one of the promises President Marcos made during his campaign.
“This is a landmark legislation that directly addresses the most pressing concerns of ordinary Filipinos: rising rice prices, food security, and the welfare of our farmers. It underscores our collective commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Philippines,” Romualdez said.
The House Speaker also commended the President’s dedication to the Filipino people, noting that his leadership and concern for the welfare of citizens were key drivers behind the Act’s passage.
“Muling pinatunayan ni Pangulong Marcos ang kanyang malasakit sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Ang batas na ito ay isang matibay na hakbang upang tugunan ang isyu ng inflation, lalo na sa presyo ng bigas, na pangunahing pagkain sa bawat hapag-kainan,” Romualdez said.
The Act empowers the Department of Agriculture (DA) to better regulate rice prices, prevent hoarding, and curb market abuses that contribute to inflation. It also provides the DA with a P5 billion budget for food security emergencies and extends the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) until 2031, with an annual allocation of P30 billion to support farmers.
“Malinaw ang mensahe ng Pangulo: walang Pilipinong dapat magutom o maghirap dahil sa mataas na presyo ng bigas. Ang batas na ito ay sagot sa matagal nang hiling ng ating mga magsasaka at mamimili,” Romualdez said.
“This is a victory for every Filipino household. It ensures that rice remains affordable and accessible while empowering our farmers to be more competitive and productive,” the House Speaker added.
The law also mandates the National Food Authority (NFA) to maintain rice buffer stocks exclusively sourced from local farmers, promoting food security and supporting the livelihoods of those in the agricultural sector.
“This measure shows that we can fight inflation and support our farmers at the same time. It reflects our commitment to making sure that no Filipino is left behind as we build a stronger, more equitable nation,” Romualdez emphasized.
Romualdez also expressed his gratitude toward his colleagues in the House of Representatives and all stakeholders for their hard work in drafting and passing the law.
“This is a shining example of what we can achieve when the Executive and Legislative branches work together for the welfare of the Filipino people. It proves that by prioritizing the needs of our countrymen, we can make a lasting impact,” Romualdez said.
In his closing remarks, he assured that the government would continue to work tirelessly to create laws that will improve the lives of the people and enhance the country’s future.
“Patuloy tayong magsusulong ng mga repormang magdadala ng kaginhawaan sa bawat Pilipino. Sama-sama nating itataguyod ang Bagong Pilipinas na pinangungunahan ng ating mahal na Pangulo,” Romualdez concluded.
