By Kenneth Marcos 
In the early hours at the NFA Central Office in Quezon City, farmers and industry representatives gathered with hope for a fairer, more efficient rice supply system. For many, the way palay is bought, milled, and distributed affects both their livelihoods and the price of rice on the table.
On 23 February 2026, the National Food Authority (NFA) conducted a Consultative Meeting to update its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on palay procurement, milling, and other operational matters. The meeting brought together farmers’ groups, rice millers, grain retailers, and field employees, with some participants joining online from various regions.
The consultation was led by NFA Administrator Larry R. Lacson, Deputy Administrator John Robert Hermano, and Assistant Administrators Veralew De Vera and Lemuel Pagayunan. Administrator Lacson said the goal was to gather feedback on proposed revisions to ensure NFA operations are transparent, efficient, and service-oriented.
Highlights of the meeting included presentations on updated SOPs for palay procurement and milling, a review of current field practices, and an open forum where stakeholders shared insights and recommendations. Discussions focused on streamlining procedures, reducing delays, and improving communication between the NFA and rice farmers.
“Sa Serbisyong Patas at Tapat, Bigas ay Laging Dekalidad,” Lacson emphasized, underlining the agency’s commitment to fairness and quality in the rice supply chain. Stakeholders were encouraged to provide input on how procurement and milling processes could be improved while ensuring farmers receive timely payments and fair prices.
For farmers, these updates are vital. Many rely on NFA procurement as a stable market for their palay. Clear and efficient processes can help prevent bottlenecks, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve income reliability. For millers and retailers, updated SOPs mean smoother operations, better coordination, and more predictable supply.
The meeting reflects NFA’s ongoing efforts to modernize operations and strengthen partnerships with the agricultural community. By involving stakeholders directly, the agency hopes to build a rice procurement system that is accountable, efficient, and responsive to the needs of both farmers and consumers.
As rice remains a staple for millions of Filipinos, ensuring a transparent and effective supply chain is crucial. Updates to the SOPs aim to make NFA a more reliable partner for farmers while guaranteeing quality rice reaches every Filipino household.
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