DA eyes retail partnership for affordable rice

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is exploring a partnership with major retail chains in Metro Manila to distribute affordable rice nationwide.

During meetings with supermarket, grocery, and convenience store representatives on Thursday, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the importance of these retailers in reaching millions of consumers daily.

Laurel noted that while the initiative aims to stabilize prices quickly, finding the right balance for its implementation is crucial.

The program will initially be piloted in Metro Manila, where P29 per kilo rice will be distributed through Food Terminal Inc. and participating retail chains as part of the Rice-for-All program.

Local government units will also receive rice from the National Food Authority at P36 per kilo starting in February 2025.

Kadiwa stores are planned for all public and private markets in Metro Manila, offering P29 per kilo rice to vulnerable sectors.