Our last argument is premised on the fact that our constitution promotes national patrimony

and our national interest is best served by not lowering the tariff rates under the rice
tariffication law.
Maintaining the current tariff rates would answer the call of the state to develop a self-reliant,
self-sustaining rice industry which the constitution upholds. Lowering the tariff rates is inimical
to the interest of our national patrimony because the logical conclusion of lowering the tariff
rates would eventually lead to a deduction of our rice competitiveness enhancement fund
which for all intents and purposes, would be used to strengthen and develop the rice industry to
which our farmers are in dire need of.
Funds raised by the rice tariffication law bundled into the rice competitiveness enhancement
fund would aggressively help mechanize our rice industry, would be used to study sustainability
research and shall be used for further education and training of our farmers. Lowering the tariff
rates would endanger the ability of the government to procure these funds. Now is not the time
for half measures. Now is the time for radical changes. With farm gate prices ranging around
from 6-10 pesos per kilo and cost of production is at 12 pesos/kilo, it is not an exaggeration
when we say that the rice industry is bleeding profusely. The rice tariffication law enacted by
congress would help raise the necessary funds to modernize and stabilize the rice industry. The
tariff rates which we submitted to the WTO agreement and the ATIGA are set based on the
guidelines set forth under these agreements. Under the doctrine of presumption of regularity,
the tariff rates set forth under the rice tariffication law have been duly studied and researched
to attain the necessary objective of this bill. A bill which seeks to enhance the capabilities of our
farmers to achieve a globally competitive industry.
We share in the sentiment of our farmers. The cost of production for our local farmers cannot
compete with that of our neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam 8p/kilo while
6p/kilo. At 12P/Kilo cost of production, the farmers are in dire need of mechanization which is
why the rice tariffication law was enacted. The tariff rates set forth under this law shall pave the
way for mechanization. This is the solution to end the bleeding caused by our lack of
modernization. This bill shall best serve the national interest of our country and shall promote
and strengthen our national patrimony.
But how is national patrimony defined under our jurisdiction? In the landmark case of Manila
Prince Hotel vs GSIS, the court laid down how the term national patrimony was to be
interpreted. “The patrimony of the Nation that should be conserved and developed refers not
only to out rich natural resources but also to the cultural heritage of out race. It also refers to
our intelligence in arts, sciences and letters. Therefore, we should develop not only our lands,
forests, mines and other natural resources but also the mental ability or faculty of our people.”
Certainly under the definition of national patrimony, it undoubtedly includes our rice
agricultural industry which is the most important agricultural crop in the county and is a staple
food. The Philippines ranked 8th in the world producing 18 million tons per year.
Under the doctrine of Constitutional Supremacy, , if a law or contract violates any norm of the
constitution that law or contract whether promulgated by the legislative or by the executive
branch or entered into by private persons for private purposes is null and void and without any
force and effect. Thus, since the Constitution is the fundamental, paramount and supreme law
of the nation, it is deemed written in every statute and contract. (Manila prince hotel vs GSIS)
SECTION 7. The State shall pursue an independent foreign policy. In its relations with other
states the paramount consideration shall be national sovereignty, territorial integrity, national
interest, and the right to self-determination.
SECTION 18. The State affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It shall protect the
rights of workers and promote their welfare.
SECTION 19. The State shall develop a self-reliant and independent national economy effectively
controlled by Filipinos.
SECTION 21. The State shall promote comprehensive rural development and agrarian reform.
Worth noting is the preservation of our national patrimony under article 12 or the