To boost the availability of affordable rice, the National Food Authority (NFA) will sell two-month-old rice stocks to local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila at P38 per kilo.
The LGUs will resell the rice to the public at affordable prices, aligning with Republic Act 12078, which mandates the disposal of rice buffer stocks before they reach three months in storage.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the importance of clearing NFA warehouses to prepare for the upcoming harvest season and create space for new palay procurement.
The NFA plans to purchase clean and dry palay at a minimum of P23 per kilo in the coming weeks, ensuring support for local farmers.
In 2024, the NFA achieved 95% of its procurement target, equivalent to 285,000 metric tons, highlighting the need to release stocks for continued operations.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 12, 2025
