DOLE, NFA launch PHP20/kg rice program for low-income workers

About 3,500 minimum wage earners in Leyte province and 265 workers in Ilocos Norte have already benefited from the PHP20 per kg rice program under the 'Benteng Bigas Meron' initiative to make rice more accessible.

In partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), National Food Authority (NFA), and other local organizations, NFA ensures low-income workers can access quality, affordable rice.

The DOLE launched the PHP20/kg. rice program in Ilocos Norte on Thursday, allowing each worker to purchase 10 kg of rice during a one-day selling event, with plans for monthly availability.

DOLE-8 head Dax Villaruel emphasized the department's commitment to helping Filipinos cope with rising prices, particularly for rice, while NFA-Ilocos Norte manager Jonathan Corpuz confirmed sufficient stockpile in their warehouses.

NFA in Eastern Visayas has about 275,064 bags stored across 19 warehouses and PCCI member JC Salvador highlighted the program's meaningful impact on easing the burden of rice expenses for minimum wage earners.