Department of Agriculture (DA) officials warned that rice production in the Philippines could decline by 20 to 50 percent if government intervention is not intensified to address the impacts of the tensions in the Middle East.

During a Senate food and agriculture committee hearing, DA Undersecretary Asis Perez warned that approximately two million metric tons of the projected 10 million metric ton palay output for August could be lost.

This potential decline is largely driven by rising fertilizer prices following the technical closure of the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional instability.

DA data indicates that prices for major fertilizer grades, such as prilled urea and granular ure, have increased by up to 50 percent as of April 3 and now cost P800 per bag.

Without immediate action, the DA warns the country could face up to ₱75 billion in losses across major crops.

While preventive measures have been proposed, they have yet to be fully implemented.

Senators are urging the prompt utilization of available funds to support farmers and fisherfolk and prevent a food crisis.

Among the funding sources identified by the DA are allocations for fuel assistance to farmers and fisherfolk, the Presidential Assistance to Farmers and Fisherfolk Program, and the Rice Farmers Financial Assistance under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund.

-Paraluman News