4-3-2024 (MANILA) The Office of the Ombudsman has issued a preventive suspension for the head of the National Food Authority (NFA) and 138 other officials and employees over their alleged involvement in the sale of rice buffer stock, announced Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel on Monday.
The suspension directive came into effect on Monday, coinciding with an ongoing investigation to ascertain the veracity of the accusations. An NFA official raised concerns about several agency executives allegedly disposing of rice buffer stocks without proper bidding and at a price purportedly disadvantageous to the government. The accused NFA executives, however, have denied any impropriety, asserting that the sale adhered to established procedures.
Secretary Laurel urged NFA officials under scrutiny to voluntarily take a leave of absence, facilitating an uninhibited investigation. He emphasized that the internal investigation is the initial step, and the agriculture department will take appropriate actions based on the findings.
The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of rising rice prices in the Philippines, posing challenges for the nation. Despite having an ample supply of the national staple, the Philippines continues to grapple with efforts to reduce the cost of rice.
Rice inflation surged to 22.6 percent in January from 19.6 percent in December 2023, marking the highest inflation rate for the food staple in 14 years. This rate is the highest since March 2009 when rice inflation reached 22.9 percent.
