DA expands PHP20/kg rice program to 55 Kadiwa centers by June

The Department of Agriculture plans to expand its PHP20-per-kg rice program, 'Benteng Bigas Meron Na,' to at least 55 Kadiwa ng Pangulo centers in Luzon by June and aims to cover more local government units in the Visayas region.

Currently operational since May 13 with 32 centers in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, the program targets vulnerable sectors such as Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and solo parents.

The National Food Authority (NFA) regional office is still awaiting requests from local government units (LGUs) willing to distribute the discounted rice in Eastern Visayas, while discussions are ongoing on how to allocate the PHP6.50 subsidy per kilogram of rice.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said they will soon include areas in Mindanao as part of a three-phase implementation plan and aims to sustain this program until 2028 to ensure food security, affordability, and accessibility while supporting local farmers.