New Delhi, Aug. 6 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered a 60-day suspension of all rice importation starting Sept. 1, 2025, to protect local farmers during the peak of the harvest season.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez made the announcement Wednesday, following a meeting between Marcos and members of his Cabinet on the sidelines of his five-day state visit here.

"The President issued the directive after consulting with Cabinet members and upon the recommendation of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.," Gomez said.

The PCO chief said the temporary importation halt is meant to help stabilize local palay prices and ensure farmers are not undercut by the influx of cheaper imported rice.

"Ri...