Manila, Feb. 26 -- More Filipino rice farmers are expected to benefit as the National Food Authority (NFA) eased its requirements for palay (unhusked rice) procurement following a public consultation with local farmers, millers, field officials, and other stakeholders on Feb. 23.

In a phone interview on Thursday, NFA Administrator Larry Lacson said the eased standards would allow the NFA to procure more palay and provide local farmers with higher income.

Lacson said this is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to support local farmers as the country approaches the peak harvest for the dry season next month.

"Sabi nila, 'Bakit naman ang higpit-higpit ng requirements ni NFA?' So, ito 'yung tugon, ginawan natin ...