DA embarks on rice import liberalization info blitz

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has begun a nationwide information campaign on the effects of the newly enacted Rice Import Liberalization Law to allay fears of industry stakeholders who remain skeptical about the measure.

“The information campaign hopes to address the fears and concerns of the rice industry stakeholders as the government prepares to implement the law signed by President Duterte on Feb. 15,” Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said.

The regional consultation began yesterday at Clark, Pampanga, for stakeholders in Northern Luzon.

The following days will be dedicated to stakeholders in Southern Tagalog (Lipa, Batangas), Mindanao (Davao City), and Visayas (Iloilo City).

Piñol said the campaign aims to help the members of the rice industry understand the details of the law, and collate comments as part of the agency’s responsibility in the formulation of the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

The IRR, which are being drafted by the government’s economic team and other concerned agencies, will thresh out the details of the law, including the process of importation and the new function of the National Food Authority under the new rice regime.

DA hopes that recommendations coming from stakeholders will be considered, to ensure that no part of the sector will be at a disadvantage. The secretary noted in an earlier interview the importance of holding dialogues, adding that “it is the stakeholders who know what they need.”

The measure, to be implemented next month, will allow private entities to import rice from more efficient producers outside the Philippines, provided that they pay the appropriate duties set by the law.

Farmer groups are worried that the unimpeded entry of more affordable rice will lead to “chaotic rice trading” and force local rice producers out of the market.

“I will be lying if I say that I feel comfortable with the measure. The truth is just like the rice farmers, I have my misgiving and fears,” Piñol said.

“But now that the measure has been signed into law, both I and the DA, as part of the instrumentalities of the government, must do our part to ensure that it is implemented well and loopholes plugged,” he added.

The secretary added that “in spite of the challenges that the rice industry is facing now, rice farming will continue and must be pursued.” —KARL R. OCAMPO