Marcos allies defend rice program timing

Marcos administration senators defended the timing of the government's P20/kilo rice program during a press conference in Pangasinan on Friday, April 25.

Former Senate President Vicente Sotto III dismissed claims linking the initiative to election season by stating that it is better late than never and suggesting initial uncertainties about implementation.

Makati Mayor Abby Binay argued that the three-year-old administration's delivery of a campaign promise should be seen as an accomplishment, not a political maneuver, emphasizing that delays were due to logistical challenges.

Panfilo Lacson emphasized that efforts aimed at addressing poverty and hunger are never too little or too late.

Benhur Abalos asserted that implementing the rice subsidy is part of President Marcos Jr.'s long-standing aspiration and stressed it has nothing to do with election timing, noting the public's anticipation for affordable rice.

Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidates criticized Vice President Sara Duterte's claim that the program's rollout is 'too little, too late', while Rep. Erwin Tulfo proposed reviewing the Rice Tariffication Law to ensure long-term sustainability.