THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) convened on December 17, 2024 to explore possible collaboration to address critical concerns related to anti-competitive practices affecting the agriculture sector.
The discussion focused on tackling issues such as price fixing, abuses of dominant market position, and the smuggling of agricultural products, which undermine competition and can lead to higher prices. The dialogue marked an important step in enhancing collaboration between the two agencies as they work towards safeguarding the interests of Filipino farmers, fisherfolk, and consumers.
Key areas of collaboration were identified, such as enhancing transparency and information exchange through data sharing to better understand market dynamics, establishing a specialized task force to tackle specific anti-competitive issues across various agricultural sectors, case buildup against violators of competition laws, facilitating training and information sharing to strengthen overall enforcement capabilities, and engaging in visits to monitor compliance and investigate potential infractions.
Attendees from the PCC included Commissioner Ferdinand M. Negre, Executive Director Kenneth V. Tanate, Competition Enforcement Office Director Christian Loren B. De Los Santos and Asst. Director Genevieve E. Jusi, and Economics Office representatives. Representing DA were Undersecretary for DA Inspectorate and Enforcement and Chief of Staff Alvin John F. Balagbag, Undersecretary for Operations and Agri-Fisheries Mechanization and Undersecretary for Rural Credit Roger V. Navarro, Director for Inspectorate and Enforcement Felicisimo F. Madayag, Jr., and Atty. Charisma Aclan of Office of the Secretary.
Through this collaborative approach, the PCC and DA aim to foster a competitive market environment that benefits all stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Both agencies remain committed to their shared goal of promoting fair competition and protecting the rights of the Filipino public. PR
