Manila, Jan. 29 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday assured there will be no "over-importing" of rice despite the country's widening trade engagements.

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. made the assurance after the Philippines opened its doors to rice imports from Pakistan following a high-level meeting.

In a statement, Tiu Laurel said the country's importation will be "calibrated" based on the local supply gaps.

"The Philippines welcomes Pakistani rice, but we will limit imports strictly to what the country needs. We will not over-import; food security comes first," he said.

He reiterated that self-sufficiency remains a priority through local production support, actions to address weather disruptions, rising demand,...