Farmers' group calls for DA chief to step aside during rice smuggling probe

The Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) called on Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. to demonstrate "delicadeza" and temporarily step down from his post while investigations into the alleged unauthorized rice imports proceed. The farmers' organization made the appeal Wednesday as authorities continue examining the case involving P395 million worth of rice.

Customs officials seized 312,000 bags of Vietnamese rice in connection with the smuggling probe. The large quantity of imported rice raised concerns among local farming groups, who worry about potential market distortions and impacts on domestic producers.

The FFF's call for Laurel's temporary leave reflects broader concerns about the integrity of the agriculture sector's leadership during the investigation. Officials have not yet disclosed detailed findings regarding how the rice allegedly entered the country or the parties involved in the suspected illegal operation.

The probe comes as the Philippines continues to grapple with rice supply and pricing issues that have drawn scrutiny from both government agencies and agricultural stakeholders. Authorities have not announced a timeline for completing the investigation into the alleged smuggling scheme.