The Department of Agriculture and other relevant agencies are urged to expedite the drafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the amendments to the Agricultural Tariffication Act, recently signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said Dec. 10 the IRR is crucial for the immediate enforcement of the law’s provisions to stabilize rice prices, combat hoarding, and support Filipino farmers.
“The swift implementation of this law is non-negotiable. Our people, especially ordinary Filipinos, need to feel its benefits as soon as possible,” Romualdez said in a press release. “I call on the DA and its attached agencies to prioritize the drafting of the IRR and ensure that it is completed within 30 days.”
He explained that the IRR serves as the roadmap for implementing the law, outlining specific actions, responsibilities, and timelines to operationalize its key provisions.
“Without the IRR, the law cannot be enforced effectively, delaying much-needed relief for consumers and support for farmers,” he added.
The IRR will enable government agencies to act swiftly in stabilizing rice prices and in combating manipulative practices in the market.
With the IRR in place, the DA can immediately enforce provisions to regulate warehouse operations, prevent hoarding, and ensure that the National Food Authority maintains optimal rice buffer stocks sourced from local farmers. This will protect consumers from sudden price spikes and guarantee a stable rice supply, the Speaker said.
For farmers, the IRR will also ensure the timely implementation of programs funded under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund, which has been extended until 2031.
He assured the public that the House of Representatives will closely monitor the progress of the IRR’s formulation and implementation to ensure that the objectives of the law are achieved. ||
