President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has extended the suspension of rice importation until December 31, 2025, in a bid to protect local farmers and stabilize market prices, according to Executive Order No. 102 signed on October 30.
The order prolongs the ban on importing regular milled and well-milled rice, which was first imposed under Executive Order No. 93 in September, following the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) recommendation to allow the domestic market to absorb local harvests.
President Marcos said the extension aims to shield Filipino farmers from “downward price pressures from imported rice” while maintaining price stability and safeguarding consumer welfare.
It also stated that the suspension would not cover specialty rice varieties not commonly produced by local farmers.
Under the directive, the DA, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) are tasked to evaluate the effects of the import suspension on supply and pricing.
The three agencies must meet within 30 days of the EO’s effectivity and submit a joint recommendation to the President within 15 days thereafter.
The extension comes amid reports of improved farmgate prices following the initial 60-day suspension of rice imports that took effect from September 1 to October 30.
Citing the powers vested in the presidency by the Constitution, Mr. Marcos said the policy was consistent with the government’s commitment to strengthen the country’s agricultural sector and ensure food security.
The order takes effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
