Marikina Extends Financial Relief to Micro Rice Retailers Amidst Price Ceilings

Marikina City - In response to the challenges faced by micro rice retailers due to the recent implementation of price ceilings on regular and well-milled rice by the national government, the local government of Marikina extended financial assistance and other forms of relief to 149 registered micro rice retailers in the city.

In a significant development, Marikina City Mayor Marcy Teodoro signed and ratified three ordinances aimed at providing immediate relief and support to these essential businesses during a recent gathering with micro rice retailers.

The ordinances are as follows:

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1. Ordinance No. 68, Series of 2023 - This ordinance grants relief on rental payments to rice retailers at the Marikina Public Market in the City of Marikina. It stipulates that micro rice retailers will not be charged rent or lease fees for the months of September and October 2023.
2. Ordinance No. 69, Series of 2023 - This ordinance grants relief on business tax payments to rice retailers in the City of Marikina. Eligible rice retailers in the city will not be required to pay business taxes during the third and fourth quarters of 2023, coinciding with the effective implementation of the price cap. Retailers who have already paid their business taxes for this period will receive tax credits.
3. Ordinance 70, Series of 2023 - This ordinance grants cash assistance to rice retailers in the City of Marikina. Details regarding the amount and distribution of this cash assistance were also shared during the event.

Mayor Marcy Teodoro emphasized the importance of these ordinances in providing much-needed financial support to micro rice retailers grappling with the challenges posed by price ceilings. She also expressed gratitude to the retailers for their adherence to the regulations.

"Marikina is fortunate to have disciplined and rule-abiding retailers. However, many of them are experiencing losses due to their compliance with these regulations. That's why we consulted with our Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council) to provide assistance while these guidelines are in effect," Mayor Marcy Teodoro stated.

The event was attended by Vice Mayor Marion Andres, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Atty. Nancy Teylan of the Business Permits and Licensing Office, City Treasurer Nerissa San Miguel, and Dr. Ramonito Viliran, the Marikina Public Market Administrator.

The financial assistance and relief measures reflect the City of Marikina's commitment to supporting local businesses and ensuring their resilience amidst changing market conditions. These initiatives aim to ease the economic impact of price ceilings on micro rice retailers and contribute to the city's economic recovery efforts.