Philippines: expressing concerns about Senate Bill

09 Oct 2023

Cooperative rice retailers in the Philippines are expressing concerns about Senate Bill (SB) 2342, which sets a P1 million threshold for "agricultural economic sabotage." They fear being labeled as hoarders and argue that legitimate practices like stockpiling for rainy days and adjusting prices due to inflation shouldn't be penalized. The cooperative retailers were excluded from the drafting process and are worried about the bill's punitive measures, which could disrupt business operations. They've called for the removal of the P1 million threshold and their involvement in legislative discussions to promote economic stability and growth.