BY: VANESSA BUGTONG

At 62 years old, Nanay Marjie clings to her wallet tightly as the prices of goods continue to rise.

She said that since the start of 2025, she has been cutting back on expenses, especially with the soaring price of rice.

This has made it a constant challenge for her to stretch a 1,000-peso budget for market shopping.

“We just focus on buying the essentials first,” said Margie Tacayuran.

Because of this, the Department of Agriculture is pushing for the declaration of a food security emergency.

Through this, the price of rice can be lowered.

PBBM expressed, “The reason we are doing this is that we have done everything to lower rice prices, but the market is not being allowed to function properly.”

If this materializes, the National Food Authority (NFA) will release its rice stocks to influence price reduction in the market.

The LGUs and Kadiwa stores will lead this initiative, with rice possibly being sold at 38 pesos per kilo.

“The demand-and-supply curve is not being followed because, despite reducing input costs, selling prices remain high,” PBBM added.

Many hoped the Department of Agriculture would declare a food security emergency this week, but they have yet to receive a copy of the resolution from the National Price Coordinating Council recommending such action.

Meanwhile, after the Department of Agriculture announced the 58-peso Maximum Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for imported rice in Metro Manila, Secretary Laurel stated plans to lower it to 49 pesos by March.

According to Sec. Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Department of Agriculture, “By February 5, we’ll review the conditions to make this achievable.”

While some complain about the MSRP, the secretary remains confident that retailers can comply.

“We’re giving them advanced notice to achieve this goal,” Laurel added.

He added that the DA hopes global rice prices will continue to drop, ensuring imported rice remains affordable for consumers.