Arnel de Mesa, spokesman for the DA, said the NFA would only be authorized to import rice when necessity arises.
"It will only be allowed (to import rice) as a last recourse. It can also buy rice if there is shortage and during extraordinary events," De Mesa said.
Groups have opposed the move to allow the NFA to import rice.
Farmers' group Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) chairman Rosendo So said there is no need to give the NFA additional powers.
Rice watchdog group Bantay Bigas spokesperson Cathy Estavillo said the government should instead provide more budget to the NFA to buy more palay and sell it to the markets.
But De Mesa said the NFA would only be allowed to import rice upon the recommendation of different committees and approval of the DA secretary.
Bu hikaye The Philippine Star dergisinin May 17, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye The Philippine Star dergisinin May 17, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
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