The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced that the government’s P20-per-kilo rice program is now available in Jolo, Sulu. Around 3,000 residents benefited from the program’s launch, which was led by Sulu Vice Governor Abdusakur Tan.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the program, which started as a pilot in 13 provinces, is on track to expand to all 81 provinces nationwide. This month, new outlets are opening in Aklan, Capiz, Catanduanes, Davao Oriental, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Sarangani, and Sulu, with Tawi-Tawi set to follow in December.
Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive, the P20-per-kilo rice initiative will run until June 2028 and aims to support 15 million low-income families.
Tiu Laurel said the program not only helps families manage daily expenses but also supports farmers by guaranteeing a stable market through the National Food Authority.
As of November 13, regular market rice prices in Metro Manila ranged from P37.28 to P58.40 per kilo depending on the type and origin, highlighting the significant savings offered by the subsidized P20 rice.
