Cebu Governor-Elect Embraces P20-Per-Kilo Rice Program
CEBU CITY – The newly elected Cebu governor, Pamela Baricuatro, who initially opposed the controversial P20-per-kilo rice program during her campaign, has now expressed her willingness to support and potentially expand the initiative. This shift marks a significant development in the local government’s approach to food security.
Baricuatro emphasized the importance of making the P20-per-kilo rice program accessible to all residents. “I want everyone to have access to the P20-per-kilo rice. It should not be selective,” she told local reporters shortly after her oath-taking ceremony on May 22.
Focus on Food Security and Program Accessibility
The incoming governor highlighted food security as a top priority for her administration. After a surprising victory against the incumbent governor in the recent midterm elections, Baricuatro is poised to lead the provincial government toward initiatives that benefit the wider Cebuano community.
The rice subsidy program, promoted by the national government, was originally launched in Cebu on May 12. It was temporarily halted during the election period but has since resumed its operations to serve local residents.
Recent Rice Deliveries and Quality Assurance
Reports indicate the National Food Authority (NFA) has delivered over 60,000 sacks of rice to Cebu, sourced from different regions across the country. On May 23, the NFA’s top official inspected the recent shipment at the local warehouse to ensure quality compliance.
The official confirmed that rigorous quality control measures, including cooking tests and fumigation, are in place to maintain safety and freshness. He explained, “Regular activity ang fumigation just to make sure patay ang insekto,” meaning fumigation is routinely done to eliminate insects.
Rice quality can vary in grain size and color, but local experts affirm that all batches meet safety and quality standards before distribution.
Distribution Progress Across Cebu Towns
As of May 24, Central Visayas has received a total of 68,600 sacks of rice. Several towns in Cebu have already begun withdrawing their allocations. These include Pinamungajan with 200 sacks, Medellin with 79, Catmon with 130, Tabogon with 325, Talisay City with 400, and San Fernando with 100 sacks.
Baricuatro’s openness to support and expand the P20-per-kilo rice program signals a potential boost in accessibility for Cebuanos, particularly those who rely on affordable staple foods. Community leaders and local stakeholders are watching closely as the new administration takes steps to address food security in the province.
For more news and updates on P20-per-kilo rice program, visit Filipinokami.com.