The Department of Agriculture (DA) assures that the country’s rice supply will last up to 89 days despite President Marcos’ extension of the rice importation ban until December 31.
DA spokesman Arnel de Mesa projected a record palay harvest of 20.2 million metric tons this year, surpassing 2023’s 20.06 million MT, with total consumption and waste estimated at 14 million MT.
The DA reported stable retail prices for rice, while farmgate prices for palay have risen, benefiting local farmers, and additional funds of P1.66 billion were released for inbred seeds for next year’s planting.
The import ban, formalized under Executive Order No. 102, applies to regular and well-milled rice but exempts specialty rice not commonly produced locally.
De Mesa also supported restoring the 35% tariff on imported rice to further protect local producers.
Source: PhilNews24 | November 5, 2025
