More Kadiwa Stores to Offer Rice at P29 per Kilo Nationwide

Filipino households can look forward to purchasing rice at P29 per kilo as the Department of Agriculture (DA) expands the number of Kadiwa Stores across the country.

Expansion Plans

DA Assistant Secretary Arnel De Mesa announced on “24 Oras” that the P29 per kilo rice program, which began in Bacoor, San Pedro, Laguna, and Cavite, will extend to Visayas and Mindanao by August. The aim is to broaden the program further by November.

When the program launched on July 5, 2024, it initially offered well-milled rice at P29 per kilo at 10 Kadiwa sites in Metro Manila and Bulacan. The DA plans to extend the trial period from six months to one year to gather critical information on demand, supply, logistics, and administrative challenges.

Target Beneficiaries

The P29 program is specifically available to members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and single parents.

Price Reductions Expected

De Mesa also mentioned that consumers might see a reduction in rice prices in August due to Executive Order 62, which lowered tariffs on imported rice. A decrease of P6-7 per kilo is anticipated as more imported rice enters the markets. However, some supply is already trickling in this July.

Concerns and Criticisms

While the program aims to provide affordable rice, some farmers and agriculture groups have criticized Executive Order 62, arguing that it negatively impacts local farmers. The DA noted that halting EO 62 might delay rice importation or deter importers, complicating the supply situation.