MANILA, Philippines — Six business groups yesterday expressed support for the continued implementation of the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) and the efforts of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to address problems faced by rice farmers in terms of low palay prices. In particular, RTL set up the Rice Competitive Enhancement Fund to assist rice farmers and enhance their productivity and competitiveness through seed, mechanization, credit and extension services. While these measures were not implemented by the previous DA leadership, the groups said repealing the RTL would be tantamount to under-development of the agriculture sector. “We are sure that out from the birth pains, a new, vibrant and modern Philippine agriculture sector will emerge,” the groups added. Earlier, Dar said the government expects to impose a safeguard duty on rice imports next month (October) to stabilize the supply and price of the staple.

Source: Philippine Star September 26, 2019 20:48 UTC