Government Delivers P20 Per Kilo Rice Promise
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced on Monday that the government has successfully rolled out the P20 per kilo rice program without compromising the income of Filipino farmers. This key promise has been fulfilled while ensuring that farmers continue to receive fair earnings.
“To those asking where the P20 per kilo rice is, here is my answer: We have proven that we can implement the P20 per kilo rice. Our farmers will not lose income,” Marcos declared during his fourth State of the Nation Address at the House of Representatives.
Program Protects Farmers’ Earnings and Expands Access
Marcos explained that the program was achieved without lowering the farmgate price of palay, safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods while delivering affordable rice to consumers. As of July, subsidized rice is now available at 123 locations nationwide. These include 88 Kadiwa ng Pangulo centers, public market stalls, various local government units, and other government-operated outlets.
The government has launched the P20 per kilo rice program across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Target areas include San Juan, Pangasinan, Cavite, Occidental Mindoro, Cebu, Bacolod City, Guimaras, Siquijor, and Davao del Sur, among others.
Funding and Nationwide Expansion Plans
President Marcos also announced a P113 billion allocation to strengthen the Department of Agriculture’s programs. This funding will support the nationwide expansion of the rice subsidy through hundreds of Kadiwa stores and centers in various local government units.
Furthermore, Marcos issued a stern warning to traders attempting to manipulate rice prices or deceive farmers. “We will go after you because what you’re doing is economic sabotage,” he emphasized.
The government’s commitment to maintaining fair prices and protecting farmers highlights its dedication to food security and economic stability.
For more news and updates on government initiatives, visit Filipinokami.com.
