Philippine Network of Food Security Programs (PNFSP) on the Anniversary of the Enactment of RA 11203 (Rice Liberalization Law)

Today marks another year since the enactment in February 14, 2019 of Republic Act 11203, or the Rice Liberalization Law, a policy that promised to bring stability to rice prices and improve the livelihoods of Filipino farmers and consumers alike. However, as we reflect on its impact, the reality remains far from the promises made by this law.

The Philippine Network of Food Security Programs (PNFSP) stands in solidarity with rice farmers and food security advocates in strongly asserting that RA 11203 has exacerbated the crisis in the agricultural sector. Instead of uplifting the lives of Filipino rice farmers, the law has deepened their financial burdens, driving many into debt and forcing some to abandon farming altogether.  The Philippines has become the world’s  top importer of rice causing  farmgate prices to plummet, leaving local farmers unable to compete with cheap, heavily subsidized foreign rice.

Meanwhile, the supposed benefits for consumers—lower and more stable rice prices—have not materialized as promised. Rice prices continue to fluctuate, and many households still struggle to afford this staple food. The dominance of private importers in the supply chain has prioritized profits over accessibility, leaving millions of Filipinos vulnerable to food insecurity. Even Executive Order 62 which promised to address the pressing issue of high rice prices, failed as rice prices continued to soar to as high as P60-65 per kilo in retail markets.

RA 11203 has clearly failed in its objectives, instead pushing the country further away from self-sufficiency in rice production. The Philippine Network of Food Security Programs urges policymakers to recognize the detrimental impact of this law and take urgent action. We call for the repeal or substantial reform of RA 11203, alongside stronger government support for local rice farmers through subsidies, price protection, post-harvest facilities, and sustainable agricultural programs.

The path to genuine food security is not through excessive reliance on rice imports but through empowering and protecting the backbone of our food system—our farmers. A just and sustainable agricultural policy must prioritize local food production and uphold the rights of smallholder farmers. We urge the government to take immediate steps toward achieving true rice self-sufficiency and food sovereignty for all Filipinos.

#SupportLocalFarmers

#RepealRA11203

#FoodSecurityNow