Enough rice supply in Lawin-hit areas

MANILA, Philippines - The National Food Authority (NFA) has maintained that there is enough rice supply for Typhoon Lawin-affected areas after the agency released more than 3,000 bags of rice.

The NFA has released 3,325 bags of rice to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local government units for distribution to typhoon victims.

NFA assured the public that the food agency has properly positioned enough rice stocks in warehouses nationwide particularly in areas directly affected by the typhoon.

The agency has issued the rice requirements of LGUs in La Union, Eastern and Western Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Tarlac, and Camarines Norte.

NFA said it is closely coordinating with relief agencies and LGUs for continuous rice releases as part of its standing memorandum of agreement.

As standard procedure, the NFA is also monitoring prices of basic commodities, particularly rice after the occurrence of the typhoon.

NFA reported that supply and prices of commercial rice and other basic commodities remain stable.

Prevailing rice market prices were monitored at P32 to P36 per kilogram.

“We will continue to monitor the situation to assure the stable supply and prices of rice in these areas,” NFA officer-in-charge Tomas Escarez said.

Lawin made landfall in Southern Cagayan late Wednesday evening.