DA launches PHP20 per kilo rice pilot in Regions 2 and 3

The Department of Agriculture (DA) will begin piloting its PHP20 per kilo rice program on August 13 in selected areas of Regions 2 and 3, targeting farmers and middle-income families.

PHP18 billion from the DA's budget has been allocated for this expansion, with FTI booths stationed at NFA warehouses to ensure accessibility.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated his pledge to lower rice prices to PHP20 per kilo during his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), noting that the program is currently available in several provinces including Pangasinan and Cavite.

The government continues to sell PHP20/kilo rice to marginalized sectors such as persons with disabilities, solo parents, 4Ps beneficiaries, and senior citizens.

Farmers have been negatively impacted by the program, as traders are using it as an excuse to lower palay prices.