NFA execs face corruption probe over cheap rice sale

MANILA, Philippines — The National Food Authority (NFA) is facing an investigation for corruption after it allegedly sold rice to some traders at lower prices.

Some NFA officials allegedly authorized the sale of milled rice stored in the agency’s warehouse at P25 per kilo without bidding even after purchasing grains in palay form at P23 per kilo.

A panel has been formed to probe the allegations, according to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

“We do not brush aside reports of impropriety against officials of the Department of Agriculture, regardless of the source. We also welcome any government agency who may wish to conduct their own probe to ferret out the truth,” Laurel said.

“We are custodians of government funds – monies to be spent for the benefit of Filipinos, especially farmers and fisherfolk. Taxpayers’ money shouldn’t be squandered to line anybody’s pockets,” he added.

Laurel vowed stiff penalties and sanctions against corrupt officials.