DA launches PHP20 per kg 'Benteng Bigas Meron' program

The Department of Agriculture (DA) hopes that selling PHP20 per kilogram rice will further reduce rice inflation in the country.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the rice index contributed to a slower food inflation, easing to 0.7 percent from previous months.

Assistant Secretary Joycel Panlilio stated that cheaper rice prices may influence retail market prices and benefit vulnerable sectors.

The PHP20 per kg 'Benteng Bigas Meron' program was launched in Cebu on May 1st and will roll out in Metro Manila starting May 13th.

Efforts to manage spiking rice prices include setting maximum suggested retail prices, releasing NFA stocks at a lower price level, and lowering tariffs on imported rice.