The Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM) assured the public on Monday that rice prices would drop to as low as Php 42 per kilo by July, succeeding the issuance of Executive Order No. 62 which aids in reducing the tariff rates on imported rice from 35% to 15%.

During the press conference at the Manila Golf and Country Club in Makati City, PRISM founders Rowena Sadicon and Orly Manuntag, discussed the stabilization of rice values. They added by stating how the reduced tariff would be felt across the markets, particularly among the Filipino consumers.

Consumers aren’t the only ones affected by the decision, as Sadicon also assured that the local farmers’ concerns would not be overlooked despite the price reduction; Cluster farming would be implemented as a way to help local production and farmers.

“Sa kabila po ng ganitong mga usapin, kung mapag-uusapan po talaga nang mabuti at maisusulong ang pagtulong sa ating mga farmers, babantayan po namin 'yun. At the same time, dun din po sa presyo ng bigas sa ating merkado (Despite the matter, if it would be thoroughly discussed and give proper aid to farmers, we would take care of it. At the same time, it will affect the cost of rice in the markets),” she concluded.