President Marcos Launches P20 Per Kilo Rice Program
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the launch of the P20 per kilo rice program on Wednesday in Bacoor, Cavite. The initiative aims to provide affordable rice to vulnerable sectors of society, easing the burden of daily food expenses for many families.
Together with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., the president inaugurated the sale of low-priced rice at the Zapote Public Market. This program is part of the government’s effort to support minimum wage earners and marginalized groups.
Target Beneficiaries and Rollout Details
For the initial rollout, 500 sacks of rice have been allocated. Eligible buyers include senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. These groups will have priority access to the affordable rice supply.
The Department of Agriculture first introduced lower-priced rice sales on May 1. However, the program was temporarily paused until May 12 due to a government spending ban ahead of the midterm elections.
President Marcos’ Commitment to Sustainability
During a press briefing on May 28, President Marcos assured the public of his support for the P20 per kilo rice program until the end of his term in 2028. He addressed critics who doubted the sustainability of the initiative, acknowledging their concerns but urging patience.
“There are those who are saying it’s just for show; it’s just a cosmetic solution. Well, they are fair to have that opinion that it’s unsustainable. It’s really what people are saying,” Marcos said. He added, “Watch me sustain it, and then we will talk in May of 2028.”
The affordable rice program was a key campaign promise in the 2022 elections, aiming to make basic food staples more accessible to the Filipino people.
Local officials noted the program’s potential to ease inflationary pressures on low-income families, while community members expressed hope that such support will continue long term.
For more news and updates on affordable rice programs, visit Filipinokami.com.