Malaca±ang: Consumers are being encouraged by Malaca±ang to report any retailers who are found violating the government's rice price cap policy. This initiative is aimed at assisting authorities in enforcing regulations and safeguarding consumers from potential exploitation.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro informed that the Department of Agriculture (DA) has already issued notices to establishments that have breached the price cap regulations. 'Ang sabi po ng DA ay nagbibigay na po sila ng notice patungkol sa mga violation na ito. So, sa ngayon po ay iniimbestigahan po ito,' Castro stated to Palace reporters, emphasizing the ongoing investigation into these violations.
Castro made a public call, urging citizens to quickly report any instances of overpricing to either the DA or Malaca±ang to ensure proper investigation and accountability. 'Kaya po hinihikayat natin ang mga kababayan po natin, sa mga nakikita ninyo pong umaabuso patungkol sa presyo ng bigas, ipagbigay-alam lamang po ninyo sa .kahit po sa amin dito at sa Department of Agriculture para po ito ay maimbestigahan at mapanagot na ang dapat na mapanagot,' she said, encouraging public vigilance.
The DA is considering recommending an extension of the PHP50-per-kilo rice price cap beyond its current expiration date of June 30. The proposal is under study and would require the recommendation of the National Price Coordinating Council as well as the approval of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Executive Order 118, issued by Marcos, introduced the PHP50-per-kilogram price cap on imported rice as a temporary measure to combat price hikes and market abuses.
Furthermore, the DA is contemplating a 30-day extension of the price cap for 5 percent broken imported rice. The agency has already issued 36 notices of violations to those failing to adhere to the price cap, warning that non-compliant retailers could face penalties under the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law and the Price Act.
