MSRP  of imported rice should be P51 not P58 per kilo

The decision to set a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) of P58 per kilo for imported rice is not just alarmingly high—it is an affront to the intelligence of every Filipino consumer. This price, recommended by the Department of Agriculture, has drawn immediate scrutiny from lawmakers and experts alike, who have rightfully questioned its validity in light of current market conditions. In an  interview with this columnist over Radyo Pilipino , Former Agriculture Secretary  and Federation of Free Farmers Chairman Leonardo Montemayor was unequivocal: this MSRP, he said ,  should be closer to P51. 

The stark difference lays bare serious concerns about the integrity of pricing in the rice industry. What is particularly infuriating is the apparent ignorance of policy makers regarding the real costs associated with rice production and distribution. Recent data highlights that the actual landed cost of imported rice ranges between P35 and P39 per kilo. Even after accounting for logistics, packaging, and reasonable mark-ups, it is difficult to comprehend how the DA arrives at a maximum price of P58. In fact, many argue that even accounting for these factors, rice prices in retail should not exceed P49 per kilo. How does the DA justify such inflated figures when the realities of supply chain economics suggest otherwise? 

Moreover, the fact that Congressmen themselves have been vocal about their disbelief at the proposed P58 MSRP underscores a shared frustration over government incompetence in managing one of the nation’s most vital food sources. Rep. Joey Salceda aptly stated, “Diyos ko ang taas nun (My God that’s so high),” echoing the sentiment of countless Filipino families struggling to put food on the table. 

Montemayor’s proposition of imposing a maximum suggested profit margin instead of a maximum retail price makes perfect sense. Why are we continuously punishing consumers at the retail end rather than targeting the root of the issue—the importers and wholesalers who, according to reports, are pocketing  an estimated P 13.5 B in windfall profits? Allowing less than twenty major players to control the bulk of rice imports while benefiting from reduced tariffs and high retail prices is tantamount to putting profits over people. This is a classic case of government failing to hold powerful entities accountable, further entrenching inequality in the system.

The government needs a wake-up call.  Structural reforms are desperately needed in the rice supply chain to ensure not just lower prices but also that ordinary consumers aren’t exploited by profiteers. The time has come to demand a transparent pricing framework that prioritizes consumers  and farmers alike.

In light of these discussions, it is crucial for the Committee on Food Security to act decisively. There must be accountability for those responsible for setting these ludicrous prices. If we continue down this path, we risk alienating the very citizens whose needs we purportedly seek to serve. A P58 per kilo cap on rice is not merely impractical—it is a betrayal of every Filipino trying to secure basic sustenance for their families. We must advocate for sensible pricing that accurately reflects the realities of the marketplace, protecting both consumers and supporting our local agricultural sector. Only then can we hope to build a sustainable framework that serves everyone equitably.

Passenger safety in  motorcycle taxis is  non-negotiable

In a system that demands utmost vigilance, the recent trends within the motorcycle taxi industry paint a decidedly grim picture—especially when it comes to the safety of passengers. The root of the issue lies squarely with a leading motorcycle company and its irresponsible decision to allow non-professional drivers onto its platform, outright flouting regulations designed to protect the very people it serves. This is not just a lapse; it’s a betrayal of trust that could endanger lives.

Angkas has long claimed to be a leader in providing safe travel options for riders 99.77 percent , yet this facade crumbles when scrutinized against the backdrop of reality. By onboarding non-professional drivers, Angkas opens the floodgates to accidents waiting to happen. Riders entrust their safety to these services, only to find themselves vulnerable due to the reckless practices of companies more interested in growth than compliance. How can we, as passengers, feel secure knowing that individuals without proper licenses are navigating our streets? The risks are profound and unacceptable.

Furthermore, it’s bewildering how Angkas promised these non-professional drivers assistance in obtaining professional licenses within a mere two months only to abandon them a few months later—especially right after their unethical practices were exposed during a Senate hearing. Those who sought honest employment were treated like disposable commodities. Was it merely a ruse to pacify regulatory bodies and comntinue its its push for market dominance? This form of deception not only compromises driver welfare but also underscores a systemic disregard for commuter safety.

The dismissal of nearly 100 non-professional drivers without notice is nothing short of an injustice. Senator Raffy Tulfo’s comments ring true: Angkas has failed to uphold its end of the bargain despite their  explanation that a clerical mistake on their  platform happened. To me, the lack of support for these drivers is unacceptable, especially when they were assured a path to professional status. They dutifully transported passengers based on these promises, only to be discarded when scrutiny was applied. This glaring oversight exposes a lack of accountability —as well as a disregard for the lives of both drivers and passengers.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) must step in decisively. It is imperative that they investigate Angkas and its hiring malpractice without delay. We cannot tolerate a scenario where corporate negligence leads to injured lives or even fatalities. The message must be loud and clear: Passenger safety is non-negotiable, and companies operating in this space must adhere to the law. Our government should not allow shortcuts at the cost of human life and safety.

As the Senate gears up to further discussions about regulating the motorcycle taxi industry, focus must also remain on ensuring that safety standards are clear-cut and enforced rigidly. There is no room for complacency or compromise on the matter of road safety—a principle that must guide all legislative actions moving forward. 

Let us take a stand for passenger rights—demand better from all motorcycle taxi companies who willfully place profits over the safety of our communities. Only through robust oversight and enforcement can we hope to foster a transport landscape where safety prevails.