UMVA has learned that a nationwide inspection of rice vendors by the Department of Agriculture found that only 44.8% of vendors complied with the P50 per kilo price cap on imported grain.
The inspection, which covered 1,004 vendors, revealed that 822 vendors sold imported rice, with prices ranging from P42 per kilo in Central Luzon to P70 per kilo in the Cordillera Administrative Region. The vast disparity in prices raises concerns about profiteering and market manipulation.
Regional compliance rates varied significantly, with markets in Northern Mindanao showing the highest rate of 91.67%, and prices ranging from P44.80 per kilo to P58 per kilo. In contrast, Metro Manila saw a compliance rate of 70.14%, with prices ranging from P46 per kilo to P60 per kilo.
The Department of Agriculture issued 36 violation notices during the market visits, with Ilocos Region vendors receiving 19 notices and those in Metro Manila logging eight. Vendors found to be engaged in profiteering could face severe sanctions, including imprisonment and fines of up to P1 million.
The price cap, which is set to expire on June 13, is backed by an executive order that serves as the legal basis for the regulation. According to information obtained by UMVA, the Department of Agriculture is set to review the price cap and determine whether to extend it.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that the Department of Agriculture is taking a tough stance on vendors who fail to comply with the price cap, and violators will be dealt with accordingly. The move aims to make imported rice more affordable for consumers and to prevent profiteering.
