“Haan tayo maaksyonan ta idiay lang gamin Facebook, awan ti formal complaint” - BM Donaal on posts claiming outsider traders being prohibited to buy palay in Tabuk

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Despite the existence of an ordinance prohibiting the practice, concerns were raised at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan regarding private individuals allegedly preventing outside traders from buying palay (unmilled rice) from Kalinga farmers. However, the lack of formal complaints is hindering any legal action.

During the Provincial Board session on Tuesday, May 5, Board Member Christopher Donaal said that claims circulating online suggest some individuals are blocking traders from entering the province. However, these allegations remain unverified and cannot be formally acted upon without documented complaints.

He explained that while the issue is being widely discussed, the provincial board has no basis to investigate or take action in the absence of a written complaint.

"Adda kanu latta private individuals nga agparparit nga sumrek dagitoy palay traders ditoy province. Yet, despite the transition of the ordinance, haan tayo maaksyonan dagijay complaint da ta idiay lang gamin Facebook, awan ti formal complaint,” Donaal said.

To recall, Donaal authored the “Kalinga Fair Trade for Farmers Ordinance of 2025,” which was recently signed into law by Governor James Edduba.

The ordinance aims to protect farmers in the province by ensuring they receive fair prices for their produce and have the freedom to choose where and to whom they sell.

However, Donaal noted that the enforcement mechanism of the law—particularly the imposition of penalties—depends on the filing of formal complaints, as due process requires verified reports and proper documentation.

In this regard, he suggested inviting those raising concerns online to formally present their complaints or attend the next regular session of the board so the matter can be properly addressed.

“So ti ikasta tayo, ipaayab tayo dagijay complainants ta agfile da formal complaint. We will invite them dagiti agrekreklamo during the regular session tapno ask tayo suda directly metlang regarding diay concerns da,” Donaal added.

Responding to the issue, Vice Governor Dave Odiem and other board members emphasized the need for proper documentation, noting that the body cannot act on mere allegations.

“Awan ti basis ti action tayo nu awan formal complaint. So kasjay, masapul ipaayab tayo dagita agcomplaint,” Odiem said.