The National Food Authority (NFA) saw a significant increase in its palay purchases in January, procuring over 14,000 metric tons (MT), which is a 781% rise compared to the same period last year.
The NFA’s purchase from local farmers was driven by its higher buying price mechanism, known as PRICERS, which allows for the purchase of dry and clean palay between P23 and P30 per kilo.
Despite being in the post-harvest season, the agency exceeded 50% of its monthly procurement target of 20,490 MT.
However, rice distribution was slower, with only 4,320 MT released, or 23.7% of the target, due to low demand and minimal requests for relief operations.
The NFA is also investing P10 billion to modernize its rice facilities, including new mills and upgraded drying and storage capabilities to improve its efficiency.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 20, 2025
