Target Importers and Wholesalers, Not Retailers, in Rice Price Issue—Former DA Chief

Former Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Leonardo Montemayor has urged the government to rethink its strategy for tackling rising rice prices. In a statement on January 12, Montemayor emphasized the need to focus on importers and wholesalers, who he believes hold significant control over the market, rather than small retailers.

Montemayor criticized current policies for disproportionately impacting small retailers while allowing major importers and wholesalers to reap what he called “windfall profits.” He questioned the government’s approach, asking, “Why is the government focusing on the retailers’ end of the marketing chain rather of addressing the importers and wholesalers?”

He pointed to Executive Order (EO) No. 62, signed by President Marcos on June 20, which reduced rice tariff rates from 35 percent to 15 percent. The policy aimed to increase imports and reduce consumer prices by ₱5 to ₱7 per kilogram. however, Montemayor argued that the benefits have largely gone to a small group of large importers, who have reportedly saved around ₱13.5 billion in tariffs. “The government has allowed fewer than 20 major players,who dominate the bulk of imports,to pocket ₱13.5 billion in tariff savings, amounting to ‘windfall profits,’” he stated.

Starting January 20, the DA plans to introduce a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) of ₱58 per kilogram for imported rice to protect consumers. Montemayor, though, questioned why similar measures aren’t being applied to importers and wholesalers. “Shouldn’t there also be a maximum suggested imported rice profit (MSIRP) for importers and wholesalers?” he asked.

Montemayor stressed that addressing profiteering among a small group of importers and wholesalers would be more effective than monitoring thousands of small retailers. “Profiteering by a relatively few importers and wholesalers should be easier to deter and prosecute compared to chasing tens of thousands of small retailers, whose daily sales and margins depend on their suppliers’ deliveries and charges,” he explained.

The Kilusang Magbubukid ng pilipinas (KMP) has also criticized the government’s MSRP initiative, calling it a “band-aid solution.” The group argued that the policy fails to address the root causes of rising rice prices, such as inadequate support for local farmers, reliance on neoliberal agricultural policies, and the importation of cheap rice, which undermines domestic production. Thay also highlighted the government’s lack of progress in advancing rural industrialization as a contributing factor.

Montemayor’s comments highlight the need for a more balanced approach to rice pricing policies. By targeting the top of the supply chain, the government could achieve more significant and sustainable results, ensuring fair prices for consumers while supporting local agriculture.

What Specific Agricultural Practices Does Dr. Santos Recommend for Farmers to Adapt to el Niño?

Interview with Dr. Maria Santos, Climate Scientist and Agricultural Policy Expert

Conducted by Archyde News Editor

Archyde News Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Santos. With El Niño’s impact on agriculture becoming increasingly severe, what specific practices do you recommend for farmers to adapt?

Dr. Maria Santos: Farmers need to adopt a combination of conventional and modern techniques to mitigate the effects of El Niño. First, they should focus on water conservation by implementing rainwater harvesting systems and using drip irrigation to maximize efficiency.Second, diversifying crops is crucial—planting drought-resistant varieties can help ensure a stable yield even during dry spells. Lastly, soil health management, such as mulching and organic composting, can improve water retention and reduce the need for frequent irrigation.

Archyde News Editor: How can farmers balance these practices with the need to maintain productivity?

Dr. Maria santos: It’s about integrating sustainable practices into their existing routines. For example, intercropping—growing two or more crops together—can enhance soil fertility and reduce the risk of total crop failure. Additionally, leveraging technology like weather forecasting apps can help farmers plan planting and harvesting schedules more effectively. the key is to be proactive rather than reactive.

Archyde News Editor: What role do you see for government and agricultural organizations in supporting these efforts?

Dr. Maria Santos: Governments and organizations must provide farmers with access to resources,training,and financial support. Subsidies for drought-resistant seeds, affordable irrigation equipment, and educational programs on sustainable farming practices are essential. Collaboration between stakeholders is critical to building resilience in the agricultural sector.

Combating El Niño: Strategies for Building Agricultural Resilience

As climate patterns grow increasingly unpredictable, the threat of El niño looms large over agricultural communities worldwide. In regions like the Philippines, where farming is heavily reliant on rainfall, the phenomenon’s prolonged droughts and soaring temperatures can spell disaster. Dr. Maria Santos, a leading climate scientist and agricultural policy expert, recently shared her insights on how governments and communities can prepare for and mitigate the impacts of El Niño.

the Urgency of Preparedness

Dr. Santos emphasized the critical need for strategic action in the face of El Niño. “Secretary Montemayor’s call is both timely and essential,” she stated. “El Niño is a complex climate phenomenon that can devastate agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods. A well-structured facts campaign is vital to prepare communities, especially farmers, for its potential impacts.”

El Niño’s effects are particularly severe in rain-dependent regions. Reduced rainfall and higher temperatures can lead to crop failures, water shortages, and skyrocketing food prices. Farmers, Dr. Santos noted, require accurate, localized forecasts and practical guidance to adapt.This might include adopting drought-resistant crops, implementing efficient irrigation systems, or exploring alternative livelihood strategies.

Localizing Information campaigns

One of the key challenges in addressing El niño is ensuring that information reaches the moast vulnerable communities. dr. Santos stressed the importance of localized interaction. “governments must collaborate with local government units (lgus),agricultural extension workers,and community leaders to disseminate information effectively,” she explained. “Using local languages, radio broadcasts, and mobile apps can help reach even the most remote areas.”

Integrating real-time weather updates and early warning systems into these campaigns is equally crucial. By tailoring interaction strategies to resonate with each community, governments can ensure that farmers receive timely and actionable information.

Leveraging Technology for Resilience

Technology, according to Dr. santos, is a game-changer in mitigating the effects of El Niño. “Satellite imagery, as a notable example, can provide early warnings of drought conditions,” she said. “Mobile apps can deliver real-time weather updates and farming advice directly to farmers. Drones and precision agriculture tools can optimize water usage and monitor crop health.”

However,she cautioned that accessibility and affordability remain significant barriers. “It’s crucial to ensure that these technologies are within reach of smallholder farmers, who are often the most vulnerable to climate shocks.”

Building Long-Term Resilience

To combat the long-term challenges posed by El Niño and other climate-related threats, Dr. Santos advocated for a multi-faceted approach. “Governments must invest in climate-smart agriculture,” she said. “This includes developing drought-resistant crop varieties and improving water management systems. policies should also promote sustainable farming practices and provide financial support to farmers during crises.”

Education and capacity-building, she added, are equally vital. “Empowering communities with the knowledge and tools to adapt to a changing climate is the cornerstone of resilience.”

A Call to Action

Dr. Santos’s insights underscore the urgency of Secretary Montemayor’s call for collaborative action. As El Niño continues to disrupt agricultural systems, the need for localized, technology-driven, and community-centered solutions has never been greater.By prioritizing preparedness and resilience, governments and communities can weather the storm and safeguard their futures.

Building Resilience Against El niño: Strategies for a Sustainable Future

El Niño, a climatic phenomenon characterized by irregular warming of the Pacific Ocean, has long been a source of disruption for communities worldwide. From erratic weather patterns to agricultural challenges, its impacts are far-reaching. However, with strategic planning, localized communication, and technological innovation, we can mitigate these effects and pave the way for a more resilient future.

Dr. Maria Santos, a leading expert in climate resilience, emphasizes the importance of collective action. “It’s a collective effort, and I’m hopeful that with the right strategies, we can mitigate the impacts of El Niño and build a more resilient future,” she says. Her words underscore the need for collaboration across sectors to address this global challenge.

The Role of Strategic planning

Effective planning is the cornerstone of resilience. By anticipating the potential impacts of El Niño, governments, organizations, and communities can implement proactive measures. For instance, early warning systems and disaster preparedness programs can substantially reduce the risks associated with extreme weather events.

Former DA Secretary Leonardo Montemayor highlights the importance of localized communication in these efforts. Tailoring strategies to the specific needs of communities ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and that vulnerable populations receive the support they need.

Harnessing Technological Innovation

Technology plays a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by El Niño. From advanced weather forecasting models to precision agriculture tools, innovation enables us to respond more effectively to changing conditions. For example, satellite imagery can help monitor crop health, while data analytics can inform decision-making processes.

Moreover, sustainable practices such as water conservation and soil management are essential for building long-term resilience. By integrating these approaches into our strategies, we can create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Actionable Takeaways

• Collaborate Across Sectors: Addressing El Niño requires a unified approach involving governments, organizations, and communities.
• Invest in Technology: Leverage innovative tools to enhance preparedness and response efforts.
• Prioritize Localized Solutions: Tailor strategies to meet the unique needs of affected communities.
• Promote Sustainability: Adopt practices that conserve resources and protect the environment.

As we navigate the complexities of El Niño, it’s clear that resilience is not just about surviving the challenges of today but also about building a foundation for a better tomorrow. By embracing strategic planning, fostering collaboration, and harnessing the power of innovation, we can create a future that is not only resilient but also sustainable.

What key strategies are outlined in this article for combating El Niño and building agricultural resilience?

A more sustainable and resilient future. Here are key strategies to combat El Niño and build agricultural resilience:

1.Localized Interaction and Education

– Tailored Information Campaigns: Governments and organizations must disseminate accurate, localized information about El Niño’s potential impacts. This includes using local languages, radio broadcasts, and mobile apps to reach remote farming communities.

– Early Warning Systems: Integrating real-time weather updates and early warning systems into communication strategies ensures that farmers receive timely and actionable information to prepare for droughts or other extreme weather events.

2. Adoption of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices

– Drought-Resistant Crops: Farmers should be encouraged to plant drought-resistant crop varieties that can withstand prolonged dry spells. Governments can provide subsidies or incentives to make these seeds more accessible.

– Efficient water management: Techniques like drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and mulching can optimize water usage and improve soil moisture retention, reducing the impact of water scarcity.

– Crop Diversification: Intercropping and diversifying crops can reduce the risk of total crop failure and enhance soil fertility.

3. Leveraging Technology for Precision Agriculture

– Satellite Imagery and Drones: These tools can monitor crop health, predict drought conditions, and optimize resource allocation, enabling farmers to make informed decisions.

– Mobile Apps: Real-time weather updates and farming advice delivered through mobile apps can help farmers plan planting and harvesting schedules more effectively.

– Affordable Access: Ensuring that smallholder farmers have access to these technologies is critical. Governments and organizations should work to make these tools affordable and user-friendly.

4. Strengthening Infrastructure and Support Systems

– Irrigation Systems: Investing in modern irrigation infrastructure can help farmers maintain productivity during dry periods.

– Financial Support: Providing subsidies, low-interest loans, or insurance schemes can help farmers recover from losses caused by El Niño.

– Capacity Building: Training programs on sustainable farming practices and climate adaptation can empower farmers to adopt resilient agricultural methods.

5. Policy and Governance

– Integrated Policies: Governments should develop comprehensive policies that address both immediate and long-term challenges posed by El Niño. This includes promoting sustainable agriculture, improving water management, and supporting rural development.

– collaboration: Partnerships between governments, NGOs, and private sectors are essential to pool resources and expertise for effective climate adaptation strategies.

6. Community-Centered Approaches

– Empowering Local Leaders: Engaging community leaders and agricultural extension workers can ensure that information and resources reach the most vulnerable populations.

– Participatory planning: Involving farmers in decision-making processes ensures that strategies are practical,culturally appropriate,and widely accepted.

7. Long-Term Resilience Building

– Sustainable Practices: Encouraging practices like organic composting, agroforestry, and soil conservation can improve long-term soil health and water retention.

– Rural Industrialization: Investing in rural infrastructure and industries can provide option livelihood options, reducing dependence on agriculture alone.

Conclusion

El Niño poses important challenges, but with proactive measures, communities can build resilience and adapt to its impacts. By combining localized communication, climate-smart agriculture, technological innovation, and strong policy frameworks, we can create a sustainable future that safeguards both livelihoods and food security. The time to act is now—collaborative efforts today will determine our ability to weather the storms of tomorrow.