In his directive, Marcos said the move was necessary to allow the domestic market to absorb local production.
The initiative allows WFP to procure fortified rice directly from India to meet the nutritional needs of populations facing severe food insecurity.
The integration is intended drive collaboration, improve coordination and deliver ongoing efficiencies across key areas.
With the scheme supplying more than 60 per cent of the country’s rice, farmers argued that the government should prioritise local rice.
SEA cautions that the new requirements may be challenging for thousands of small producers who lack digital infrastructure.