MANILA — Amid the backdrop of severe weather disturbances impacting agricultural output, Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has assured the public of a stable food supply within the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Tiu Laurel, during an impromptu interview on Wednesday, stressed that food availability remains robust despite the logistical challenges posed by recent typhoons. "In terms of food, the volume of food, we're sure that there's food in the market, on shelves, nothing to worry about. I think all the industries are playing their role to provide food for everybody," Tiu Laurel remarked. He acknowledged temporary shortages in some commodities, attributing them to the disruptions caused by typhoons, which are primarily logistics issues.

The assurance came as the DA-Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Operations Center reported significant agricultural losses totaling 51,728 metric tons, valued at PHP2.26 billion as of September 9. The breakdown of these losses includes PHP1.11 billion in rice production, PHP1.08 billion in damaged irrigation facilities, and additional losses in corn, high-value crops, cassava, and livestock.

Furthermore, Tiu Laurel highlighted the resilience of the national rice supply, noting a significant increase in the National Food Authority's (NFA) buffer stock. "In fact, for our rice, in nine years, this is the first time that we have almost 2 million bags. And hopefully, by the end of the year, we will hit stocks of about 3 million bags," he said, pointing out a considerable improvement from last December's stock, which could only sustain the country for a day or two. The NFA is currently targeting at least a 15-day national buffer stock, anticipating more palay during the upcoming wet harvest season.