MALACAÑANG accused yesterday critics of sensationalizing the rice situation, painting doomsday scenarios of a crisis despite efforts of the administration to avert a crisis.

Deputy presidential spokeswoman Lorelei Fajardo said President Arroyo is fully aware of the gravity of the impact of a rice shortage, the reason she has been laying in place mechanisms to cushion the impact of a shortage.

Fajardo said P1.5 billion has been ordered released by Arroyo to boost rice production, particularly in the 10 poorest provinces.

She added adequate warning of a possible crisis had already been made by Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap "to ensure that every citizen must take action on ensuring the proper use of our rice supply."

"The President correctly pointed out that there is no rice crisis and she is on top of the situation. She will make good her promise to ensure the stability of our rice security at all cost, we only ask that the people do their share and the opposition to help find solutions and not merely be doomsayers," she said.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said rising prices do not necessarily mean a supply problem as other factors like production and marketing costs affect prices.

Ermita said rising prices of oil in the world market is one factor which the "common ‘tao’ would understand."

Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye earlier said the President is very much concerned over runaway prices of rice which is why "her economic team tracks their impact every day."

Arroyo distributed rice during the Holy Week "Serbisyo Caravan" in Pangasinan, Abra, Benguet, La Union and Baguio City.

Also distributed were noodles, canned goods and vegetable seeds. – Jocelyn Montemayor