President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced the suspension of all rice importation in the Philippines for a period of 60 days, starting September 1, 2025.

According to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez, the move aims to protect local farmers who are struggling with low palay prices during the current harvest season.

Gomez said the President issued the directive after consulting with Cabinet members on the sidelines of his five-day state visit to India, and following the recommendation of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

It may be recalled that before leaving for India on Monday, Secretary Francisco "Kiko" Pe Tiu Laurel Jr. recommended the temporary suspension of all rice imports, as well as an increase in tariffs on imported rice.