Manila, Feb. 4 -- The National Food Authority (NFA) regional office here is preparing the release of 71,000 bags of rice to interested local government units (LGUs) in Eastern Visayas under the food security emergency for rice.

NFA Eastern Visayas Regional Manager May Sara Sabarre said they have been meeting with local government officials ahead of the expected release of cheaper rice starting Feb. 15.

The Department of Agriculture declared the food security emergency for rice on Monday, allowing the distribution of rice in the Metro Manila area and some regions in Luzon, she said.

"We have been asked to prepare for the nationwide implementation starting Feb. 15. Initially, there are requests from local government units in Leyte and Sa...