House Speaker Martin Romualdez doubled down Wednesday, June 4 on his desire to institutionalize President Marcos' P20 per kilo rice program, and vowed to throw the necessary "legislative muscle" to make it happen.
This, after Romualdez met with Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. and Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Alvin John Balagbag, wherein the House leader committed to personally sponsor and champion the department's priority reform bills in the upcoming 20th Congress.
“These are not just bills — they are blueprints for lasting change. I will personally sponsor these measures to institutionalize President Marcos’ vision of affordable rice for all and stronger support for our farmers,” Romualdez declared.
The priority measures presented by the DA during the meeting--and now considered top priority of the 20th Congress’ legislative agenda--are as follows:
1. Amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) — restoring key regulatory powers to the National Food Authority (NFA) to stabilize prices and protect local production;
2. Livestock Development and Competitiveness Act;
3. Philippine Corn Industry Development Act;
4. Onion Research Center Act;
5. Amendments to R.A. No. 7308 or the Seed Industry Development Act of 1992; and
6. Amendments to the Local Government Code to strengthen agricultural extension services at the LGU (local government unit) level.
“These measures are critical to transforming our food system — from farm to market — and making sure no Filipino is left hungry or helpless in the face of price shocks,” Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) President Romualdez said.
Regading the P20-kilo rice program, the Speaker said: “Legislation is the strongest tool we have to make this program permanent.”
He underscored that the ₱20-kilo rice is not just a price point — it is a national commitment that requires bold reforms in agriculture, pricing, and rural development.
“Sisiguruhin natin na may ₱20 per kilo na bigas sa merkado para sa mga nangangailangan — hindi lang ngayon, kundi sa mga susunod pang taon (We will ensure that there is ₱20 per kilo rice in the market for those in need—not just now, but in the years to come). We will build a system where affordable rice is not a seasonal miracle, but a daily reality," he said.
The Speaker added: “To do that, we must uplift our farmers. We cannot ask them to feed the nation without feeding their hopes. These laws will give them better seeds, tools, market access, and dignity.”
Romualdez also praised Laurel and Balagbag for laying down a clear, actionable roadmap for reform.
He assured the DA of the House’s unwavering partnership in delivering meaningful results for both producers and consumers.
“Whether you’re a farmer in the fields of Isabela or a mother budgeting for the week in Metro Manila, this program is for you, Together, we will deliver affordable rice, a stronger agriculture sector, and a future where no Filipino is left behind," he said.