NFA to Sell 500,000 Sacks of Aging Rice to LGUs

The National Food Authority (NFA) announced plans to sell approximately 500,000 sacks of aging rice to local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila at reduced prices.

Aging Rice Disposal

NFA administrator Larry Lacson explained that under Republic Act No. 12078, which amended the Rice Tariffication Law (RA 11203), rice that has been stored for more than two months can now be sold before it becomes too old.

“Our nationwide stocks of milled rice total 700,000 bags. Of these, around 500,000 sacks are two to three months old and can be sold to LGUs and other government agencies,” Lacson said in a radio interview.

The rice will be made available to LGUs for distribution to their constituents.

Pricing Details

The NFA is set to hold a council meeting to determine the per-kilo price for LGUs. While not final, Lacson suggested a price range between ₱32 to ₱36 per kilo, significantly cheaper than commercial rice.
“This will definitely be cheaper than commercial rice. The final price will be discussed in the council,” he added.

This is separate from the ₱29-per-kilo aging rice currently sold at Kadiwa centers.

No Rice Emergency

Lacson clarified that a rice emergency is unnecessary to manage the aging rice stocks. Instead, plans are underway to expand Kadiwa stores to distribute more rice and prevent spoilage in warehouses.

The NFA also noted that it primarily distributes rice during calamities but is adapting to ensure efficient stock management under the updated guidelines.