By Eva C. Visperas

 

IT had been a long time since we last spoke to Engr. Rosendo “Sendong” So, chairman of the homegrown Abono Partylist. For years, Rosendo has been a media fixture, always available to discuss anything related to agriculture. His commitment to the sector was evident during his strong support for Senator Grace Poe’s 2016 presidential bid, although, as history showed, she did not win.

After the elections, Sendong, or “RS” as we call him, became increasingly busy in Metro Manila.

While we still saw him on national TV and radio interviews, local media outlets like ours would only catch up with him through occasional phone interviews. I couldn’t remember the last time we had a proper sit-down with him — until last Wednesday, November 27, when we met again in Rosales.

During our conversation, he discussed a range of critical issues affecting the Philippine agricultural sector, including the controversial rice tariffication law, local rice production, and concerns over the supply of pork, chicken, and eggs. He also shared insights into the ongoing challenges faced by local farmers and how the government can better support the sector.

So started by addressing the status of the rice tariffication law, a topic that has sparked heated debates among Filipino farmers. The law, which imposes tariffs on imported rice to protect local farmers, was signed into law in February 2019 and took effect by March that year.

However, So noted that there are proposed amendments filed recently, particularly concerning tariffs on livestock and poultry, which he believes should also be included in the system.

“We hope that tariff collections from the rice sector, which are expected to grow from P10 billion to P30 billion, will be reinvested in agriculture, especially to support local rice farmers,” he said.

Despite the law’s implementation, So pointed out that rice prices have not significantly decreased for consumers. While the cost of imported rice dropped from about P43 per kilo to P36, these savings have not been passed on to consumers. This has led to concerns about price manipulation and the influence of importers.

So also expressed his concerns about the dire situation of local rice farmers. Due to the plummeting prices of palay (unmilled rice), farmers are finding it increasingly difficult to make a profit. The price of dry palay has dropped to P23 per kilo — far below the ideal price of P30 per kilo.

“Farmers are not receiving enough for their produce, and the situation is worsened by natural disasters. Many areas have seen harvests reduced by as much as 50% due to typhoons,” So shared.

He called on the government to provide more support, including subsidies and tariff protections, to help local farmers stay afloat and continue rice cultivation. “We need to ensure that there is a stable price for palay, so that farmers are motivated to plant and harvest.”

When it comes to the supply of pork, chicken, and eggs, So assured the public that stocks are stable. Despite the typical concerns on price hikes during the holiday season, So confirmed that there is enough supply, particularly in provinces like Batangas.

“Currently, the price of pork is stable, and we have sufficient stocks of chicken and eggs,” So said, adding that the challenge, however, is ensuring that prices don’t spike due to hoarding or price manipulation.

So also highlighted the ongoing issue of smuggling in the agricultural sector, stressing the need for stronger enforcement against the illegal importation of products like rice, tobacco, and livestock. “Smuggling remains a major problem, and the government must remain vigilant in cracking down on it.”

Looking ahead, So expressed cautious optimism that 2024 could end on a positive note for the agricultural sector, with no major shortages of high-demand products. However, he emphasized that continued vigilance, proper government support, and fair market practices will be key to ensuring that Filipino farmers and consumers alike can benefit.

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