Gov't to run after abusive rice traders

The government is taking steps to ensure the stability of imported and locally produced rice prices.

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS and DEXTER BARRO II

On Thursday, June 3, Malacañang vowed to go after rice traders using the government’s P20 per kilo rice program to justify buying palay at unreasonably low prices, while the Department of Agriculture (DA) will reduce the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) of imported rice to P43 per kilo from the current P45.

Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Palace's move came following reports that some traders have been taking advantage of farmers by claiming that the expansion of President Marcos’ “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program is a valid reason to lower their farmgate offers.

In a press briefing, Castro stressed that the government would not tolerate such abuse and urged farmers to report exploitative practices to the proper authorities, such as the Department of Agriculture, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Department of Justice.

The Palace official encouraged farmers to provide as much evidence as possible to support future complaints and charges against unscrupulous traders.

"This could constitute economic sabotage, so don't hesitate to report them," she added.