ROXAS CITY, Capiz — A subsidized rice initiative offering grains at P20 per kilo was officially launched during the Capiztahan Festival, coinciding with the province’s 125th founding anniversary and reinforcing efforts to make food more affordable for Filipinos.
The program, dubbed “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!”, is a joint effort between the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Provincial Government of Capiz. It was introduced by DA Assistant Secretary Genevieve E. Velicaria-Guevarra and Governor Fredenil H. Castro, with support from the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) and the National Food Authority (NFA).
During its initial rollout, around 1,000 individuals from priority sectors received subsidized rice. Beneficiaries include senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) recipients, minimum wage earners, as well as farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers, and education personnel.
Guevarra highlighted that the initiative not only eases the burden on consumers but also supports local farmers. Rice distributed under the program is sourced from palay procured by the NFA, ensuring a steady market for agricultural producers.
The project is part of the government’s broader food security agenda under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. Officials described it as a key measure to address rising food costs and stabilize supply amid global market uncertainties.
The DA said the program is being expanded nationwide, with a target of reaching up to 60 million Filipinos by year’s end. Authorities also plan to sustain the initiative until June 2028.
Implementation follows a local government-led model, encouraging provinces and municipalities to take an active role in distribution. To date, the program has been rolled out in 661 sites across the country, benefiting over six million Filipinos.
To improve transparency and efficiency, the DA has introduced a digital registry system using QR codes to track beneficiaries and monitor distribution.
Governor Castro welcomed the initiative, calling it a timely response to rising living costs and expressing optimism that continued coordination with national agencies will further improve access to affordable rice for Capiz residents.
NPO News Team | DA Press Office - PR
