Thailand to sell rice to Philippines at negotiable rates : PM

Philippines lawmakers were some of the strongest critics of Samak's proposals, calling the idea of cashing in on high food prices as inhumane. Filipinos were paying now double for their rice compared to last year.

Samak made the openended pledge during talks with his host President Gloria Arroyo. The Thai premier did not speak to the press.

The amount of rice to be sold to Manila was not discussed, Thai officials said.

Arroyo thanked Samak for the offer that was made "in the spirit of Asean unity".

Samak's visit to Manila was part of his familiarisation tour to introduce himself to Asean countries.

Samak was given full military honours at the Malacanang presidential palace, where the two leaders met before attending an evening banquet.

Among Samak's announced activities for today is a morning trip to a Manila market to check food prices. Protocol officers also hope to have him visit the headquarters of the International Rice Research Institute near Manila.

In a speech in the central island of Negros on Thursday, Arroyo said Samak's visit "will be a good opportunity to thank him for selling us rice very, very early in the day so that now, at least we have enough rice in our silos," officials said.