By Stephanie Sevillano MANILA – The National Food Authority (NFA) on Monday announced the procurement of palay (unhusked rice) at a higher price to support Filipino farmers amid rising production costs. Under the flexible Price Range Scheme (PRICERS), the agency began buying clean and dry palay at PHP30 per kilogram in Bulacan and Nueva Ecija. In a Viber message, NFA Administrator Larry Lacson said the effort seeks to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices on rice producers amid the peak harvest season. “ Makakatulong ito na mabawi ng magsasaka ‘yung gastos sa petrolyo (This will help farmers to recover from their petroleum expenses),” he told the Philippine News Agency. The production cost in the two provinces is estimated at PHP15 per kilo. Lacson said the higher buying price will also help protect farmers from unscrupulous traders. “ Mapipigilan nito ang mabilis na pagbagsak ng presyo ng traders dahil magkakaroon ng option ang farmer na magbenta sa NFA (This will prevent the ...