Shoppers in Mangaldan, Pangasinan are now adjusting their buying habits as imported rice has disappeared from public market stalls for more than a month, following the government’s continued suspension of rice importation.

At the Mangaldan Public Market, vendors said supplies of imported rice ran out as early as November. Since then, no new stocks have arrived from suppliers, leaving many customers searching for the rice variety known for its softness and taste.

Nancy De Vera, a rice vendor, said demand remains high despite the lack of supply.

“Wala na, nag-stop na ‘yung imported rice. Andami naghahanap kasi masarap at malambot kapag ‘yung imported rice,” she said.

The shortage comes as the government extended the suspension of rice imports until the end of 2025. The policy aims to support local farmers by helping stabilize palay prices during harvest season. Authorities assured the public that there is enough local rice to meet demand while the import ban is in place.

Manuel Aquino, rice coordinator of the Mangaldan Agriculture Office, said there is no shortage of locally produced rice in the town.

“Kung ang pagbabasehan ay base doon sa naani ng mga farmers, enough ang suplay. Wala tayong shortage at wala ring nairereport na parang nagkakaroon ng shortage sa bigas,” he said.

With imported rice unavailable, some consumers have turned to alternative ways to save money.

Vicente Cabutotan, a shopper, said his family buys palay directly when prices are low.

“May mga palay kaming nabili na mura, ‘yun ang gagamitin namin,” he said.

Despite the current situation, rice vendors remain hopeful. According to market sellers, suppliers are expected to resume deliveries of imported rice by February, once policies and supply conditions allow.