Philippines may extend rice price cap beyond June 2026 deadline

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is considering extending the rice price cap beyond June 30, 2026. The proposal aims to maintain affordable prices for consumers across the country. Officials have yet to finalise the decision but are actively reviewing the policy’s future. The DA is currently investigating several rice retailers suspected of breaking the government-imposed price cap. Notices have already been sent to multiple establishments for possible violations. The exact number of retailers under scrutiny has not been disclosed.

The agency plans to recommend an extension of the P50-per-kilo maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for rice. This recommendation will require approval from the National Price Coordinating Council and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. before it can take effect.

To improve enforcement, the DA has called on the public to report any suspected breaches of the price cap. This step is part of broader efforts to ensure compliance among retailers. No final decision on the extension has been announced. If approved, the price cap would continue to help stabilise rice costs for consumers. The DA’s investigations and public cooperation remain key to upholding the policy.