Affordable Rice at P29/kilo to Reach Visayas and Mindanao by Late August

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is set to extend its P29 per kilo rice program to the Visayas and Mindanao regions by late August or early September. This initiative aims to support vulnerable sectors, including beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and solo parents.

Expansion Plans

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced plans to increase the number of Kadiwa centers offering this affordable rice. “We aim to collaborate with local government units, farmers’ cooperatives, and private businesses to expand this network to the Visayas and Mindanao,” he stated.

Current Trials

On July 5, the DA launched a large-scale trial of selling National Food Authority (NFA) buffer rice stock at P29 per kilo across 10 Kadiwa sites in Metro Manila and Bulacan. This trial is crucial for gathering data to ensure the success of a nationwide rollout.

Expressing Gratitude

Secretary Tiu Laurel extended his gratitude to all involved in the program’s launch, highlighting the collaborative spirit that made it possible. “Maraming Salamat po to our team at the DA, the farmers’ cooperatives, associations, and the selfless military and police personnel who volunteered to ensure affordable rice reaches our Kadiwa centers and vulnerable households,” he said.

Future Plans

Beyond the P29 rice, the DA is working on making well-milled rice available at Kadiwa centers at prices lower than the current market rates. This effort aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s initiative to alleviate the high cost of essential goods for the poor and other vulnerable groups.