Philippine Senators Push for Presidential Power to Modify Rice Tariffs

Philippine Senators Risa Hontiveros and Francis Pangilinan are pushing for a measure that would grant the President the power to modify rice tariffs. The move aims to address the country’s rice shortage and inflation. According to the senators, the current rice tariff system is not effective in addressing the needs of Filipino consumers. They believe that giving the President the authority to adjust rice tariffs would allow for a more flexible and responsive approach to managing the country’s rice supply. The proposed measure would enable the President to increase or decrease rice tariffs as needed, depending on the prevailing market conditions. This would help to stabilize rice prices and ensure a steady supply of the staple food. The senators noted that the country’s rice shortage has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted global supply chains and led to increased prices. They also pointed out that the current rice tariff system is based on a quota system, which can lead to corruption and inefficiencies. By giving the President the power to modify rice tariffs, the senators hope to reduce the country’s dependence on imported rice and promote local rice production. They also believe that this would help to support Filipino farmers and reduce poverty in rural areas. The proposed measure has been welcomed by various stakeholders, including farmers’ groups and consumer organizations. However, some critics have raised concerns about the potential impact on the country’s trade agreements and the potential for abuse of power by the President. The senators have assured that the proposed measure would include safeguards to prevent abuse of power and ensure that the President’s authority to modify rice tariffs is used in a transparent and accountable manner. The measure is currently pending in the Senate and is expected to be debated in the coming weeks. If passed, it would be a significant step towards addressing the country’s rice shortage and inflation. The senators are confident that the measure would have a positive impact on the lives of Filipino consumers and farmers. They also believe that it would help to promote food security and reduce poverty in the country. The proposed measure is part of a broader effort to reform the country’s agricultural sector and promote sustainable agriculture practices. The senators have also filed other measures aimed at supporting Filipino farmers and promoting local food production. These measures include proposals to increase funding for agricultural research and development, as well as initiatives to promote organic farming and reduce the use of chemical pesticides. Overall, the proposed measure to give the President the power to modify rice tariffs is a significant step towards addressing the country’s rice shortage and inflation. It is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of Filipino consumers and farmers, and to promote food security and reduce poverty in the country.

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