Farmers' Group Advises Against Amending Philippine Rice Tariffication Law

Debate Over Rice Tariffication Law Intensifies

A prominent farmers' organization in the Philippines has expressed its view that there is no immediate necessity to amend the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL). Instead, the group suggests that the focus should be on ensuring the law is fully and effectively implemented. This statement comes amidst ongoing discussions and various proposals for changes to the legislation, which significantly impacts the country's rice sector and food security.

The Rice Tariffication Law, enacted in 2019, replaced quantitative restrictions on rice imports with a tariff system. Its primary goal was to lower domestic rice prices for consumers by allowing more imports and to provide support to local farmers through the collection of tariff revenues, which are channeled into the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).

Calls for Better Implementation, Not Amendments

According to the farmers' group, the existing framework of the RTL, if properly executed, possesses the necessary mechanisms to address many of the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. They argue that amending the law at this juncture might introduce further uncertainties and delays, diverting attention from the crucial task of making the current provisions work as intended.

Many stakeholders believe that the benefits envisioned by the law, such as improved productivity among local farmers through mechanization, high-quality seeds, and training funded by RCEF, have not yet been fully realized across all regions. This perspective emphasizes that greater attention to accountability and efficiency in utilizing the fund could yield more positive outcomes than legislative changes.

Government Weighs Other Proposals

Despite the farmers' group's stance, other government bodies and agricultural stakeholders are exploring potential adjustments to the RTL. The Department of Agriculture (DA), for instance, has outlined key changes it believes could help overhaul the law and better stabilize the rice supply and prices. One such proposal involves requiring private importers to share in the responsibility of maintaining buffer stocks of rice, a task currently handled primarily by the National Food Authority (NFA).

This push for private sector involvement aims to ensure a more consistent and adequate supply of rice in the market, especially during lean seasons or unforeseen emergencies, thereby mitigating price fluctuations. These discussions highlight the complex balancing act between supporting local farmers, ensuring affordable rice for consumers, and managing the country's overall food supply chain.

What happens next

The debate surrounding the Rice Tariffication Law is expected to continue as various groups present their perspectives and proposals. The Philippine government will need to carefully consider these inputs, weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of both full implementation of the current law and any proposed amendments. Decisions made will have significant implications for millions of Filipino farmers and consumers, shaping the future of the nation's vital rice industry.