PINURI ni Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez ang pag-usad ng panukala na mag-aamyenda sa Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) na naglalayong tiyakin na sapat ang suplay ng bigas sa bansa at abot-kaya ang presyo nito.

Sa sesyon ng plenaryo nitong Martes, inaprubahan ng Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso ang House Bill 10381 sa pamamagitan ng voice voting.

“I commend the approval on second reading of the bill amending the five-year-old Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), marking a significant stride towards strengthening our rice industry and ensuring broader access to affordable, high-quality rice for all,” ani Speaker Romualdez.

“This amendment is crucial in enhancing the competitiveness and resilience of our rice sector, ensuring that it can withstand challenges and continue to thrive,” saad pa nito.

Target ng Kamara na aprubahan ang panukala sa ikatlo at huling pagbasa bago ang sine die adjournment sa susunod na linggo.

“This bill is not just a policy change; it is a powerful pledge to every Filipino. We are committed to ensuring that rice—our staple food—remains affordable and accessible to all. By refining the RTL, we address its shortcomings and provide our farmers with the support they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive market,” wika pa ng lider ng Kamara na mayroong mahigit 300 kinatawan.

Sa ilalim ng panukala ay palalakasin ang National Food Authority (NFA) at bibigyan ito ng kakayanan na mag-angkat ng bigas sa mga emergency situation para matiyak na sapat ang suplay at mapahupa ang presyo ng bigas.

“I extend my gratitude to my colleagues for their unwavering support and dedication to this cause. Together, we are building a future where our rice industry flourishes, and no Filipino goes hungry. Let us continue to work hand in hand to achieve these noble objectives for the betterment of our nation,” dagdag pa ni Speaker Romualdez.

Nanawagan naman ang ilang kongresista sa Senado na bilisan din ang pagpasa ng panukala.

Nauna rito ay nagpahayag ng kahandaan si Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na sertipikahan ang panukala upang mabilis itong maipasa ng Kongreso.