MANILA – Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. called on National Food Authority (NFA) officials currently under investigation for the alleged improper sale of NFA buffer stock rice at a subsidized price to consider taking a voluntary leave of absence (LOA).
In a statement, Laurel emphasized the importance of allowing the Department of Agriculture’s investigating panel to conduct a thorough review of the matter “without any potential hindrance.”
“It is advisable, and I strongly recommend, for the concerned officials – particularly those accused and those making accusations – to take a leave of absence,” he stated.
While emphasizing the principle of presumption of innocence amidst the ongoing exchanges of allegations within the NFA, Laurel highlighted the significance of the internal investigation process. “Until proven guilty, everyone is to be considered innocent. However, this internal investigation is of paramount importance, and we must allow it the necessary time,” he remarked.
The agricultural chief underscored that the ongoing probe represents just the initial phase, with subsequent actions from the DA contingent upon the investigation’s findings.
Though no specific deadline was mentioned by Laurel, his office anticipates a prompt and thorough assessment outcome.
Earlier disclosures by NFA Assistant Administrator for Operations Lemuel Pagayunan to the People’s Television Network revealed the alleged sale of 75,000 bags of NFA rice without the requisite public bidding process. The purported transaction amounted to over PHP 93.7 million, with the rice sold to selected millers and traders at a rate of PHP 25 per kilogram.
In response, NFA executives asserted that the sale adhered to established protocols and denied any irregularities.
(el Amigo/MNM)
