SOME government agencies entertain doubts on the intention of some media people especially when it is the latter that are volunteering to help disseminate information on what they are doing or plan to do in the future. Well, we can’t help that. It is their call. But not the National Food Authority (NFA). Reacting to my column, NFA Regional Director Pepito Paqueo instructed his regional information officer Celeste “Chuchi” Gaabucayan to get in touch with me, and explain the role of NFA regarding confiscated rice by the Bureau of Customs. I never alluded anything negative to the NFA but simply suggested that instead of allowing the rice to rot, just give the rice to the hungry while acknowledging the presence of a legal process that go with it. But Mr. Paqueo was insistent that Mrs. Gaabucayan should meet me and explain. Frankly, I appreciated this gesture, so rare nowadays from government officials. The meeting took place at Starbucks at Limketkai Mall. It was a pleasure to meet NFA assistant regional director Victoria “Bing” Duray and Chichi. Yes, there is a process to follow and NFA does not dispose confiscated rice. The BOC does. A few pointers given by the ladies: • Only BOC is authorized to apprehend, seize and dispose of smuggled items, commodities, etc., rice included. • NFA will only assist BOC on the request of BOC to 1) provide storage for the seized rice, if available, 2) to conduct laboratory analysis of smuggled rice with respect to its quality condition, milling degree, regular or well-milled and percentage of broken rice. If former NFA manager Danilo Camat was known for his honesty and strictness, Mr. Paqueo is said to be even better. Having been with the Internal Audit team, Mr. Paqueo is said to be guided by the principles acquired as part of the audit team in the NFA. He doesn’t own a car, live in a simple home, and shun media. But he allows informal chats with people from media on a personal level. I certainly look forward to this. There were other matters taken with the ladies but we have agreed to just put them on hold until fit for dissemination. Asked about the reported fake rice, they now have official findings which the ladies will provide me soon through email. Thank you, Mr. Paqueo, Mrs. Duray and Mrs. Gaabucayan for the invitation. You just set a good example as public servants.