Comprehensive Review of NFA Procedures Amid Suspension of Officials

In a recent development, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced the suspension of over a hundred officials from the National Food Administration (NFA) due to concerns extending beyond the reported anomalous rice sales. During his statement in Melbourne, President Marcos emphasized that the current issues encompass not only the irregular sale of NFA rice but also a broader examination of the agency’s internal procedures.

The President highlighted concerns about certain actions within the NFA being executed without the requisite board approvals and proper discussions with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the wider Cabinet. This decision to suspend the implicated officials comes as a preventive measure against both the reported anomalous sales and the disregard for established procedural protocols.

The agriculture portfolio, which President Marcos personally oversaw before appointing Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. as secretary in November 2023, is at the center of this scrutiny. The suspension follows the Ombudsman’s order against 139 NFA officials and employees, spotlighting the agency’s operational and procedural integrity.

Secretary Laurel has taken temporary charge of the NFA, initiating a panel to investigate allegations surrounding unauthorized rice sales. These allegations involve the sale of milled rice, stored in NFA warehouses, at prices below market value and without the due bidding process. This sale reportedly occurred after purchasing the rice in its unprocessed form at a slightly lower price per kilogram.

The NFA, in response, defended its actions, stating its mandate to manage the disposal of rice stocks efficiently, ensuring the rice’s good condition and extending its shelf life while minimizing residual sales. This incident has ignited a broader discussion about the operational practices within the NFA and the need for stringent oversight to prevent future anomalies.