Policemen ordered to help allay fears of rice shortage

Because of rumors of rice shortage, the Philippine National Police has issued a directive to all its units in the country to extend whatever help to lessen its effects on the public, a local police official said.

City police director Sr. Supt. Carmelo Valmoria told reporters yesterday that they have received a directive from Camp Crame in Manila to coordinate with local National Food Authorities, the Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Agriculture.

There are several reports about shortage of the supply of rice, but these reports were considered by NFA officials as “perceived shortages”.

“The directive to us is how we could assist these agencies particularly in the alleged hoarding of rice,” Valmoria said.

The police are now coordinating with these agencies, particularly the NFA, to locate private warehouses of private retailers who may be hoarding rice.  – Edwin Ian Melecio/BRP