THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) under Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno assured Malacañang of its “resolute commitment” in implementing the 60-days import ban on rice to protect the domestic industry.
“The BOC is committed to ensuring that this import ban is strictly upheld, protecting Filipino farmers from the adverse effects of cheap imported rice and maintaining stability in the local market,” the Customs chief said, adding:
“We shall leave no room for violations and will ensure that this ban is fully enforced.”
In a directive last August 6, the Chief Executive said the import ban would take effect on September 1, in time for the local harvest season.
President Marcos issued the directive after consulting with Cabinet members on the sidelines of his five-day State Visit to India from August 4 to 8 and upon the recommendation of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., said Secretary Dave Gomez of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
Commissioner Nepomuceno warned the agency “will not tolerate any attempt to smuggle or misdeclare rice and will take immediate action against violators.”
“As part of our efforts to combat smuggling and illegal trade, the BOC will continue to ramp up its operations to safeguard the agricultural sector.
“We are committed to upholding the integrity of the rice market, and we will do everything in our power to prevent any illegal importation that undermines the President’s decision,” he added.