President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. spearheaded the distribution of confiscated rice to underprivileged families across several regions, sending a clear message to smugglers that the government is intensifying its crackdown.
The rice, seized by the Bureau of Customs in Zamboanga City, comprised 42,180 sacks valued at an estimated P42 million.
The initiative has benefitted families in Zamboanga, General Trias in Cavite, Camarines Sur, and Manila. “Instead of the rice going to waste, we are giving it away to the citizens. This will serve as a warning to smugglers and hoarders that we will keep an eye on rice in the country,” remarked President Marcos.
He emphasized the administration’s commitment to ensuring affordable rice prices and condemned smuggling, hoarding, and abuse in the “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines), a rebranding of the government under Marcos Jr.
Addressing the challenges ahead, the President, who also holds the position of agriculture secretary, admitted that curbing smuggling and hoarding would be a daunting task, but remained resolute. He expressed his determination to utilize the full force of the government to halt these illegal operations, aiming to stabilize rice prices.
Marcos pointed out that the spike in rice prices was solely due to hoarding, as the country had sufficient supply and there had been no instances of panic buying. He emphasized, “There is no other reason for rice prices to go up except hoarding.”
In response to the ongoing smuggling issue, the President has proposed giving suspected hoarders and smugglers less time to provide legitimate documentation for their goods. Despite his initial reluctance to set a price cap on rice, the prevalent smuggling activities forced his hand.
Moreover, President Marcos is advocating for the swift approval of legislation that would enforce severe penalties for those found guilty of agricultural economic sabotage.