In a statement, Laurel emphasized that the officials in question should allow the Department of Agriculture's (DA) investigating panel to conduct a thorough review of the matter "without hindrance.”

Several NFA executives are under investigation for failing to conduct public bidding in the sale of buffer stock rice at a subsidized price.

“The best thing is, and I strongly advise them, to take a leave of absence… at least the heads, he accused and the accuser,” he said.

While Laurel acknowledged that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty, he stressed the importance of the internal investigation within the NFA.

He emphasized the need to allow the process to unfold and for the investigating panel to deliver a swift and accurate assessment.

The agriculture chief said the probe is the first step and the DA will pursue the next step as soon as the investigation results are out.

Laurel did not se the deadline for the results to come out but said he expects a swift and accurate assessment result.

Previously, NFA Assistant Administrator for Operations Lemuel Pagayunan revealed to the People's Television Network the alleged sale of 75,000 bags of NFA rice without the conduct of a public bidding, involving over PHP 93.7 million worth of rice sold to select millers and traders at PHP 25 per kg.

In response, the DA stated that NFA executives assert the sale adhered to proper procedures and denied any irregularities.