Local Government Units (LGUs) in Caloocan City and Navotas City have begun implementing a rice price cap in various markets and stores, as directed by the national government on September 5th. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. issued Executive Order (EO) No. 39, which stipulates that the price of regular milled rice should not exceed P41 per kilogram in public and private markets, while well-milled rice should not go beyond P45 per kilogram.
The purpose of implementing this EO is to address several issues concerning rice products, including hoarding, illegal importation, and overpricing. In a joint effort with the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the LGUs will intensify inspections at warehouses and markets to penalize anyone found in violation of the mandate.
The Caloocan City Public Information Office (PIO) has stated that the city government has yet to conduct inspections in markets to ensure retailers and vendors comply with the new rice price cap. The city has market teams that regularly monitor prices of essential commodities, including rice.
One rice retailer worker in Langaray Market, Caloocan City, named Macky Gutierrez, expressed his concerns about the rice price ceiling and appealed to the government for assistance in mitigating its impact on their livelihood. He believes that the new price cap may result in fewer customers and reduced profits. Gutierrez stressed that authorities should focus on apprehending hoarders instead of retailers, as they are the ones most affected by this measure.
While many rice retailers have temporarily closed their stores due to the implementation of the rice price cap, Gutierrez and his employer have decided to continue their operations, prioritizing the needs of their customers. Gutierrez believes that by satisfying the customers’ demands, they are more likely to return for future purchases.
In Navotas City, the EO was also implemented through the Market Monitoring Team, which regularly inspects consumers’ basic needs, particularly rice products. Navotas City Mayor John Reynald “John Rey” Tiangco stated that the purpose of the mandated price ceilings is to safeguard all consumers in the country amid the alarming increase in retail prices of goods.
The implementation of the rice price cap aims to address issues surrounding rice products while ensuring fair prices for consumers. The collaboration between LGUs and relevant government agencies, such as the DA, DTI, and BOC, signifies an active effort to enforce the mandate and penalize violators.
