Sen. Cynthia Villar Urges Passage of Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law
Sen. Cynthia Villar, the chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, has been advocating for the swift passage of the proposed Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law. The aim of this legislation is to curb the influence of middlemen and traders who manipulate the supply and prices of essential food items, particularly rice.
In a statement, Sen. Villar emphasized the urgency of passing this law to protect both farmers and consumers from the hardships caused by these manipulative practices. By implementing stricter regulations, the government can ensure fair trade practices and stabilize the prices of basic food items.
Importance of the National Food Authority (NFA)
Sen. Villar also highlighted the crucial role played by the National Food Authority (NFA) in ensuring food security and stability in the country. The NFA is responsible for managing the supply and distribution of rice, a staple food in many households.
By effectively regulating the rice market, the NFA can prevent excessive price fluctuations and ensure a steady supply of this essential commodity. This not only benefits consumers but also protects the livelihoods of farmers who rely on a fair and stable market for their produce.
The Proposed Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act
The proposed Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, also known as Senate Bill (SB) 2432, was passed in December 2023. The House of Representatives (HOR) has also passed its version of the bill, indicating a broad consensus on the need for stronger regulations in the agricultural sector.
In March, both the Senate and HOR conducted a preliminary bicameral conference to discuss the bill and reconcile any differences between the two versions. This collaborative effort demonstrates the commitment of lawmakers to address the pressing issue of economic sabotage in the agricultural industry.
Under SB 2432, severe sanctions will be imposed on individuals involved in activities such as smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, and forming cartels related to agricultural and fishery products. These measures aim to protect the interests of farmers, prevent economic sabotage, and ensure the proper collection of taxes and duties.
Sen. Villar emphasized that this bill serves as a self-preservation measure against the manipulative schemes of economic saboteurs. By safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers and plugging leakages in tax and duty collection, the legislation aims to protect the state from tax evaders and non-payers. Ultimately, this will contribute to the well-being of agricultural producers, consumers, and the overall economy.
The Role of the NFA in Rice Acquisition and Distribution
Sen. Villar also highlighted the specific responsibilities of the NFA in relation to rice acquisition, maintenance, and distribution. The agency is tasked with procuring rice from local farmers for buffer stocking and calamity assistance.
With an annual budget of P9 billion for local procurement, the NFA plays a vital role in supporting local farmers and ensuring a stable supply of rice. By sourcing rice from local producers, the government can reduce dependence on imports and strengthen the agricultural sector.
Through effective management and distribution, the NFA can ensure that rice reaches the consumers who need it the most, particularly during times of calamities or emergencies. This proactive approach not only enhances food security but also demonstrates the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
Overall, Sen. Villar’s advocacy for the passage of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law reflects her dedication to protecting the interests of farmers and consumers. By implementing stricter regulations and empowering the NFA, the government can create a fair and stable market for agricultural products, ensuring food security and supporting the livelihoods of farmers.
Source: The Manila Times
