TUPAD Workers Join Expanded P20-Per-Kilo Rice Distribution
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) announced that thousands of beneficiaries from the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program will be mobilized to support the expanded P20-per-kilo rice distribution through Kadiwa centers nationwide by 2026. This initiative aims to improve food accessibility while providing short-term employment opportunities.
DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma emphasized that deploying TUPAD workers to assist in Kadiwa outlets, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and other agencies, will help strengthen the program’s impact. The workers will handle logistics, crowd management, and retail duties, similar to their roles in relief operations coordinated with social welfare agencies and local governments.
Boosting Food Security and Employment Together
The government’s plan to integrate TUPAD workers into the P20-per-kilo rice distribution program intends to support vulnerable groups, including minimum wage earners. By providing affordable rice, these groups can save more for other essential needs, effectively boosting their purchasing power.
Currently, seven labor organizations operate Kadiwa outlets, with six more undergoing evaluation. The program is attracting even more labor groups eager to participate as it expands nationwide.
Training for Sustainable Success
To ensure the long-term success of the program, participating labor groups are receiving training in enterprise management, including bookkeeping and financial planning. This equips them with the skills necessary to run their Kadiwa stores efficiently and sustainably.
Affordable Rice Supplied by Local Farmers
Kadiwa centers offer rice at a subsidized price of P20 per kilo. The rice is supplied by the National Food Authority (NFA) and sourced directly from local farmers. This aligns with the government’s push to lower rice prices and promote food security throughout the country.
The Department of Agriculture has secured sufficient rice stocks to sustain the program through 2025. Preparations are also underway to expand Kadiwa outlets to all regions by 2026, ensuring wider coverage and accessibility.
Aligning Labor and Food Subsidy Programs
By integrating TUPAD workers into the rice distribution initiative, the government aims to enhance operational efficiency, generate employment, and support domestic agriculture. Secretary Laguesma highlighted that aligning labor programs with food subsidy initiatives benefits both workers and consumers, fostering inclusive growth and resilient communities.
DOLE continues to collaborate with national and local partners to ensure that the program’s benefits reach the targeted sectors across the Philippines.
For more news and updates on P20-per-kilo rice distribution, visit Filipinokami.com.