DA Eyes Extension of ?50 Rice Price Ceiling to Sustain Affordable Food Costs

AGRI-NEWS | Farming Posted on 2026-06-14 01:46:45

MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is set to recommend the extension of the ₱50-per-kilogram maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for rice beyond its June 30 expiration date as part of the government’s continuing efforts to keep the staple affordable for Filipino consumers.

The announcement was confirmed by Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro during a media briefing on Wednesday, saying the DA is currently assessing the impact of the price cap and intends to propose its extension.

According to Castro, the recommendation will still be subject to review by the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) before it can be submitted to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for final approval.

“The Department of Agriculture has expressed its intention to recommend an extension of the rice price cap. This proposal will still be evaluated by the National Price Coordinating Council and, if endorsed, will require the approval of the President,” Castro explained.

While no final decision has been reached, Castro noted that the DA hopes to secure approval before the current measure expires at the end of June.

The ₱50-per-kilo MSRP was introduced to help protect consumers from rising rice prices and ensure greater accessibility to one of the country’s most important food commodities.

Meanwhile, Malacañang disclosed that several rice retailers are currently under investigation for alleged violations of the government-imposed pricing policy.

Castro said the DA has already issued notices to establishments suspected of non-compliance and has begun conducting investigations to determine whether violations have occurred.

She urged the public to assist authorities by reporting rice retailers that may be selling above the prescribed price ceiling or engaging in other forms of price manipulation.

“We encourage our fellow citizens to report any abuses involving rice prices to the Department of Agriculture or even to our office so these cases can be properly investigated and those responsible can be held accountable,” Castro said.

The Palace emphasized that public participation remains an important component of the government’s monitoring efforts to ensure compliance with consumer protection measures.

Although the DA has yet to disclose the exact number of retailers currently being investigated, Castro confirmed that notices have already been issued to several establishments as part of the agency’s ongoing enforcement actions.

The proposed extension of the rice price cap reflects the government’s broader strategy of balancing consumer welfare, food affordability, and market stability amid continuing challenges in the agricultural sector.

NPO News Team  I  PCO / Department of Agriculture -PR

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