
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is rolling-out a caravan on Monday, Sept. 11, to provide an affordable supply of rice stock to the retailers in the public market.
In coordination with Bulacan rice millers and traders, the “Rice on Wheels Program for Retailers” aims to ensure the availability of affordable regular and well-milled rice to the general public.
DTI Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual said, “the DTI will work closely with different government agencies and private stakeholders to ensure that Filipino families will be able to access affordable rice during the implementation of Executive Order No. 39. We will continue to find ways and means to work with the private sector to stabilize the supply and price of rice in the market.”
To prepare for the program's official launch, the DTI already brought 12,500 kilos of rice from Bulacan Rice Millers and Traders for sale in Brgy. Gulod, Novaliches, Quezon City on Sept. 8. It was followed by simultaneous dry-run in public markets located in Makati, Parañaque, and Manila City.
Through the Rice on Wheels for Retailers, the rice millers and traders of Bulacan wanted to show their support to the government’s temporary price stabilization effort under the EO 39.
Further, the DTI and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also started on Sept. 9 the distribution of financial aid to small retailers as part of the ongoing efforts to address the concerns on the implementation of the rice price ceiling.
Guaranteeing that everyone has access to more affordable rice supplies, the DTI said it will work consistently with other government departments and private stakeholders using a whole-of-government approach as it aims to nurture a stronger, more accessible market for all. (Ma. Joselie C. Garcia)