DA Launches ₱40/Kilo Kadiwa Rice Program in Major NCR Markets

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has rolled out its Kadiwa ng Pangulo Rice-for-All program at major public markets in Metro Manila, offering rice at an affordable ₱40 per kilo to help combat rising retail prices and ease the burden on consumers.

Affordable Rice for All

DA Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra, who leads the Kadiwa program, announced that kiosks offering the ₱40-per-kilo rice will be set up in major public markets, including MRT and LRT stations. The kiosks will operate from Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Initially, the program sold rice at ₱45 per kilo, later reducing it to ₱43 per kilo. Starting Thursday, the price will drop to ₱40 per kilo to shield consumers from inflationary pressures.

Targeted Public Markets

The Kadiwa kiosks are being coordinated with key markets across NCR, including:

• Kamuning Market
• Malabon Central Market
• New Las Piñas City Public Market
• Pasay City Public Market
• Balintawak Market
• Cartimar Market
• Pateros Grace Marketplace
• Maypajo Public Market
• Paco Market

Nationwide Expansion Plans

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the program aims to force rice retailers and traders to lower their prices, particularly those accused of profiteering. Plans are underway to expand the initiative to other regions with persistently high rice prices.

“President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved an additional ₱5 billion budget to support the program, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to food security and price stabilization,” Tiu Laurel said