DA Assures Stable P20 Rice Supply, Urges Online Registration
MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Friday assured the public of a stable supply of rice under its P20-per-kilo program, while urging beneficiaries to register online to ensure orderly distribution.
The move comes amid rising demand for subsidized rice under the “Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na” program, available at Kadiwa ng Pangulo sites, as global oil price increases linked to tensions in the Middle East continue to affect food costs.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the online registration system is designed to prioritize vulnerable sectors and streamline access to the subsidy.
“We implemented online registration to ensure that the most vulnerable sectors benefit from the P20-per-kilo rice, especially during these challenging times,” he said.
The DA chief also assured that rice stocks remain sufficient, with the National Food Authority (NFA) maintaining ample inventories, including aging but still good-quality rice from record procurement in 2025.
Assistant Secretary Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra said the system also aims to curb misuse of the program, noting that some individuals have attempted to access subsidized rice using fake identification.
“We appeal for cooperation from our fellow Filipinos. Abusing the system would only hurt the most vulnerable,” she said.
Eligible beneficiaries include members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, public utility vehicle drivers, and registered farmers and fisherfolk.
The DA earlier advised beneficiaries to secure slots through an online appointment system to avoid long queues and ensure smoother transactions. Walk-in buyers are also encouraged to follow designated schedules and avoid overcrowding beyond operating hours.
At the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) Central Office in Quezon City, subsidized rice is available from Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
In addition to the P20 rice, the Food Terminal Inc. continues to offer more affordable options under its Rice-for-All program to help stabilize market supply.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
