Manila, Oct. 22 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday warned that it would issue show-cause orders against those behind the spiking rice retail prices amid a stable supply.

This came as the prevailing price of premium imported and local rice rose to PHP50 per kg. in Metro Manila as of Oct. 20, according to the DA-Bantay Presyo (price watch).

This is higher than the PHP43 maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) set for 5 percent broken imported rice.

In a phone interview, DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa assured swift actions against those who may be taking advantage of consumers starting Thursday or within the week.

"Mag-iikot muli ang DA (The DA will go on rounds), through our Agribusiness and Marketing As...