President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed the Department of Agriculture (DA) to ensure sufficient rice supply and bring down prices amid global uncertainties, Malacañang said Tuesday.

In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President instructed Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. to “do everything possible” to lower the price of rice and protect consumers.

The directive was issued during the sixth UPLIFT Committee meeting held in Malacañang, where officials discussed measures to ensure adequate supply of key commodities, including fuel, and to sustain government services amid external pressures such as the Middle East crisis.

Castro said the President also ordered authorities to go after hoarders and profiteers taking advantage of the situation.

“Huwag hayaang may mang-abuso sa sitwasyon ngayon na may krisis sa Middle East (Do not allow anyone to take advantage of the situation amid the Middle East crisis),” she said.

Castro added that the government would not hesitate to file cases against those found colluding to manipulate rice prices and may impose a price cap if warranted.

“At kapag napatunayan na may sabwatan para tumaas ang presyo ng bigas, hindi mag-aatubili ang gobyernong kasuhan ang mga sangkot at ang maaaring pagpapataw ng price cap (If collusion to increase rice prices is proven, the government will not hesitate to file cases and may impose a price cap),” she said.

The Palace said the UPLIFT framework continues to guide a coordinated whole-of-government response to stabilize prices, safeguard consumers and strengthen the country’s economic resilience.

Following the meeting, Marcos was also scheduled to convene the 9th Economy and Development Council meeting to discuss broader strategies, including improving the country’s mass transportation system through expanded railway networks. (PNA)