House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s Office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez says the newly-signed law amending the Agricultural Tariffication Act (ATA) represents a victory for every Filipino household, where rice is the staple food.

“This is a landmark legislation that directly addresses the most pressing concerns of ordinary Filipinos: rising rice prices, food security, and the welfare of our farmers. It underscores our collective commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Philippines,”  Romualdez, a principal author of the law, said in a statement Monday, Dec. 9 following a ceremonial signing in Malacañang. 

The Speaker credited President Marcos for his decisive leadership and genuine concern for the Filipino people, which he said were the driving forces behind the swift passage of this measure.

“This is a victory for every Filipino household. It ensures that rice remains affordable and accessible while empowering our farmers to be more competitive and productive,” Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) president Romualdez said.

The law strengthens the regulatory powers of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to combat hoarding, price manipulation, and other market abuses that lead to price spikes. 

It also provides the DA with a P5-billion buffer fund for food security emergencies. It extends the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) until 2031, with an annual allocation of P30 billion to support farmers through mechanization, seed propagation, and other agricultural programs.

The law also mandates the National Food Authority (NFA) to maintain rice buffer stocks sourced exclusively from local farmers, ensuring both food security and livelihood support for the agricultural sector.

“This measure shows that we can fight inflation and support our farmers at the same time. It reflects our commitment to making sure that no Filipino is left behind as we build a stronger, more equitable nation,” Romualdez added.

Romualdez further commended President Marcos for his relentless focus on addressing the most critical issues facing Filipino families.

The Leyte 1st district congressman also highlighted Marcos' leadership in prioritizing food security as a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda.

“This law exemplifies the vision of President Marcos for a Bagong Pilipinas. It aligns with his goal of protecting the welfare of ordinary Filipinos while empowering key sectors like agriculture. His leadership inspires all of us in the House of Representatives to work even harder for meaningful reforms,” Romualdez said.

He went on to thank his colleagues in Congress as well as stakeholders for their hard work in crafting and passing the law.

“This is a shining example of what we can achieve when the Executive and Legislative branches work together for the welfare of the Filipino people. It proves that by prioritizing the needs of our countrymen, we can make a lasting impact,” said the Speaker.