By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, or Republic Act No. 12022, on Thursday, September 26, 2024.
The new law aims to strengthen the country’s agricultural sector by addressing illegal activities that disrupt the food supply chain and drive up prices.
RA 12022 defines offenses related to agricultural economic sabotage, including smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, and cartel operations that affect the availability and affordability of food in the country.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the law is designed to make food more accessible and affordable for Filipinos while boosting income opportunities for local farmers and fisherfolk.
The new legislation repeals Republic Act No. 10845, the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016, replacing it with more comprehensive measures to ensure stricter enforcement and better implementation.
“Ultimately, this legislation aligns with the Administration’s broader commitment to achieving food security and supporting the agricultural sector, which remains a vital pillar of the Philippine economy,” the PCO added.
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