Head of NFA and 138 other individuals have been suspended

The National Food Authority (NFA) administrator Roderico Bioco, along with 138 other officials and employees, has been placed on preventive suspension for six months following allegations of involvement in an anomalous sale of NFA rice to two traders. This suspension, mandated by the Office of the Ombudsman, is a response to the sale of 75,000 bags of rice, part of the nation’s buffer stocks, for P93.75 million.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. disclosed that among those suspended are NFA assistant administrator for operations John Robert Hermano, 12 regional managers, 26 branch managers, and 99 warehouse supervisors nationwide. Laurel emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance stance against corruption, expressing condemnation for the illegal sale and commitment to uncovering the truth.

Laurel affirmed his collaboration with the Office of the Ombudsman and the establishment of a special panel of internal investigators to ascertain culpability and prevent future occurrences of corruption within the agency. He also declared his temporary assumption of the NFA leadership until a new administrator is appointed by the President, aiming to ensure continuity in agency operations and services to the public.

In his statement, Laurel urged all agency personnel to fulfill their duties diligently to uphold the standards of service expected by the Filipino people.

News: Head of NFA and 138 other individuals have been suspended