September 13, 2023

In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to help curb the impact of the rice price cap, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos urged the Metro Manila Councilors League (MMCL) to pass an ordinance to assist rice retailers on the capital loss that they may have incurred.

During MMCL’s 35th anniversary held in Pasay City, Abalos enjoined the councilors to enact an ordinance subsidizing rice retailers through the temporary suspension of the collection of market stall fees or grant of discounts that may alleviate the effect of the implementation of the rice price ceiling.

“Baka puwedeng magpasa kayo ng ordinansa to empower the mayor na magbigay ng diskwento sa mga may pwesto sa palengke na rice retailers o ilibre ninyo na yung kanilang stalls for a month,” he said.

Mandaluyong City is one of the first local government units that passed an ordinance to help rice retailers suspending the assessment and collection of market stall fees from rice retailers in Mandaluyong Public Markets 1 and 2 from September 5, 2023, to October 5, 2023.

Earlier, the President authorized the distribution of payout of P5,000 to P15,000 to unregistered small rice retailers and sari-sari store owners selling rice affected by the mandated price ceilings on rice.

Meanwhile, the DILG Chief encouraged the MMCL to strengthen public order and safety within the metropolis through the implementation of a unified closed-circuit television (CCTV) system and other technological advancements to fight and solve crimes.

He said the unified approach of Metro Manila councilors in the fight against crime can lead to improved investments and progress. “Development is almost synonymous with peace and order. Kung masama ang peace and order, mahihirapan magkaroon ng investment.”

For her part, MMCL President and Caloocan City Councilor Carolyn Cunanan said, “As President of MMCL, rest assured we will continue to achieve our vision of united Metro Manila, united in terms of services and legislative excellence for our constituents.”

Original Article at: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/METRO-COUNCILORS-URGED-TO-PASS-ORDINANCE-TO-ASSIST-RICE-RETAILERS-/NC-2023-1158