Manila, April 14 -- The National Food Authority (NFA) is urging Bicolano farmers to sell their palay (unhusked rice) to the government following an increase in procurement prices effective April 13 to strengthen buffer stocks for subsidized rice distribution and disaster response.

Under the new price schedule, clean and dry palay is procured at PHP29 per kg. in Albay, PHP25 in Catanduanes, PHP28 in Camarines Sur, PHP25 in Camarines Norte, PHP30 in Sorsogon, and PHP26 in Masbate. These rates are significantly higher than the previous PHP 24 per kg. set last week.

Julie Llenaresas, NFA Bicol assistant regional manager, said the increase helps farmers recover from rising production costs, including fuel, fertilizer, and labor.

"The higher...