cases against rice smugglers after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. decided to distribute the seized rice to the residents of Zamboanga.

According to the House Speaker, the chamber supported the President’s decision to distribute the confiscated rice to the poor areas of Zamboanga, saying that this only proved the government’s commitment to protect consumers and chase price manipulators.

Romualdez added that the government recognizes the effort of the BOC, but the campaign against the hoarders and profiteers must be continued, and someone must be arrested and prosecuted.

He added that unless the culprits are jailed or otherwise punished, they will still continue doing their illegal activities, saying that the initiative solidifies their collective stance against the activities of hoarders, smugglers, and those who manipulate prices.

Moreover, Romualdez said that it is their duty to make sure that every Filipino family has unhampered access to affordable and quality basic goods.