Marcos names alleged rice smugglers, hoarders

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 4) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday named those allegedly involved in manipulating the rice situation in local markets.

Marcos identified these groups during his speech at a rice distribution event in Taguig City:

— San Pedro Warehouse

— Blue Sakura Agri Grain Corporation

— FS Ostia Rice Mill

— Gold Rice Mill

He said the government has slapped them with complaints in violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, the Rice Tariffication Law, and the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016 (Republic Act No. 10845).

READ: BOC files agri smuggling complaints vs. rice importers

"[Sila] ay kasalukuyang haharap sa patong-patong na mga kaso dahil sa kanilang mga ginagawa," the president said.

[Translation: They will face multiple charges for their wrongdoing.]

Marcos again warned individuals and groups engaged in manipulating the supply and demand of agricultural products in the country.

Earlier, the chief executive said hoarders and smugglers were behind the sudden uptick in rice prices.