Malacañan Palace mulls ₱50-per-kilo cap on imported rice

The Philippine government is considering a price cap of ₱50 per kilo on imported rice to help keep food prices stable amid rising global pressures, Malacañang said Monday.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the proposal came from Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and has already been endorsed to the National Price Coordinating Council for deliberation.

Castro said the Department of Agriculture has recommended the price ceiling to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who is supportive of measures aimed at ensuring affordable food supply.

“The recommendation is now under discussion, and the proposed cap is ₱50 for imported rice,” Castro said.

The move comes as the government seeks to cushion consumers from inflationary pressures, particularly as rising oil prices threaten to drive up the cost of basic goods.

Malacañang earlier assured the public that rice supply remains sufficient and that authorities are closely monitoring prices to prevent profiteering. President Marcos instructed the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to maintain a stable food supply by strengthening coordination with manufacturers and suppliers.

DTI Secretary Maria Cristina Roque said the directive emphasizes constant communication with industry players to ensure adequate supply for consumers.

Meanwhile, the government is also continuing the rollout of ₱20-per-kilo rice in select local government units.