Agriculture department declares ‘food security emergency’ to curb high rice prices

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has declared a food security emergency on rice following the persistent rise in local prices, despite lower global market costs and a tariff reduction.

Key takeaways:

• DA declares a food security emergency on rice due to persistently high prices.
• Rice inflation hit 17.9 percent in September 2023, surpassing the government’s 4-percent target.
• NFA to release buffer stocks to stabilize prices through government programs.
• Tariff cuts failed to lower domestic prices, leaving consumers struggling with high costs.
• The emergency status remains in effect until market conditions improve.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. made the announcement on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025, citing recommendations from the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC).

Rice inflation triggers emergency measures

The NPCC, led by Trade Secretary Maria Cristina Roque, found that while global rice prices have eased and President Marcos reduced rice import tariffs from 35 percent to 15 percent in July 2024, local rice prices have remained stubbornly high.

The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that rice inflation surged to 17.9 percent in September 2023, far exceeding the government’s 4-percent target for food inflation. Prices for regular and well-milled rice rose 19 percent and 20 percent, respectively, from the previous year.

Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

The Agriculture Secretary said the declaration will allow authorities to release rice buffer stocks into the market to ease prices.

“This emergency declaration allows us to release rice buffer stocks held by the National Food Authority (NFA) to stabilize prices and ensure that rice, a staple food for millions of Filipinos, remains accessible to consumers,” said Tiu Laurel.

NFA to release buffer stocks

Under Republic Act No. 12078, an amendment to the Rice Tariffication Law, the Agriculture Secretary has the authority to declare a food security emergency in response to extraordinary price increases.

This declaration enables the NFA to release its buffer stocks — legally restricted from direct public sale — to government agencies, local government units, and the KADIWA ng Pangulo program. These actions aim to stabilize prices and ensure food security for Filipino households.

The NFA currently holds 300,000 metric tons of rice, with half set for release over the next six months. Additional volumes may be made available if needed, while domestic palay procurement is set to begin soon.

Balancing open trade and market stability

Despite efforts to liberalize rice imports and lower tariffs, retail prices have remained volatile, making it difficult for low-income consumers to afford the staple grain. The government will regularly review the situation to determine how long the emergency measures will remain in effect.

“The government must strike a delicate balance between open trade policies and domestic market stability,” the DA said in a statement.