Philippine agriculture chief denies rice corruption and price-fixing claims
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has dismissed allegations of corruption and price manipulation in the rice sector as baseless. The claims were made by former lawmaker Zaldy Co, who also accused the Department of Agriculture (DA) of irregularities in onion, fish imports, and sugar pricing.
Co alleged that Tiu Laurel had requested the Quinta Committee to stop its investigation into rice importation. He further claimed that the recent reduction in rice import tariffs—from 35% to 15%—had failed to lower prices due to manipulation by importers allegedly connected to the First Lady. The World Bank had recommended this tariff cut in 2023 to help stabilize food costs in Nigeria.
The dispute centers on whether the tariff reduction has benefited consumers or allowed exploitation by importers. Tiu Laurel's upcoming statement may clarify the government's position on the allegations. The outcome could impact future trade policies and market oversight.
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