Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has mandated a 60-day suspension of rice importation, effective September 1, 2025, aimed at safeguarding local farmers during the peak harvest season. The announcement was made by Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez, following a cabinet meeting held during the President’s five-day state visit.

According to Philippines News Agency, the decision was made after consultations with cabinet members and a recommendation from Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. The temporary halt is designed to stabilize local palay prices, ensuring that farmers are not undermined by the availability of cheaper imported rice. “Right now, the decision is to suspend all rice importation for 60 days beginning September 1. ‘Yan po ang utos ng ating mahal na Pangulo para matulungan ang ating mga magsasaka ng bigas (That’s the order of our President to help farmers),” Gomez stated. President Marcos has indicated that it is “not yet time” to discuss potential increases in tariffs on imported rice.

Senator Francis Pangilinan has praised the suspension, describing it as a victory for farmers. He expressed gratitude to the administration for listening to the concerns of rice farmers. With the suspension commencing in September, Pangilinan has urged for immediate support for farmers who are compelled to sell palay at prices ranging from PHP5 to PHP9 per kilogram. He advocated for the full implementation of the Sagip Saka Law and the allocation of food funds in the 2025 budget to purchase rice directly from farmers.

The Department of Agriculture had previously recommended the temporary suspension of rice importation and suggested an increase in tariffs on imported rice to offer further protection to local farmers.