The Department of Agriculture (DA) will expand its P20-per-kilo rice program, starting with a province-wide rollout in Pangasinan this January, as part of the government’s goal to reach 15 million households by the end of 2026.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the program, branded “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!”, aims to reduce food inflation, make rice more affordable, and support farmers’ incomes. What began as assistance for the most vulnerable sectors is now being widened to include more low- and middle-income households.
The government has set aside P23 billion in 2026 to fund the program. The budget could be reduced if proposed measures granting the National Food Authority (NFA) broader powers to manage rice supply are approved. So far, beneficiaries have included 4Ps members, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers, teachers, and minimum-wage earners.
Pangasinan will serve as the pilot for full provincial coverage, allowing all eligible households to buy rice at P20 per kilo. The DA also plans to roll out the program to three cities in the Visayas and Mindanao, including Davao City, and six more provinces between January and February. This next phase is expected to benefit about 780,000 households, or 3.2 million people.
Rice will mainly come from NFA stocks, with distribution through Kadiwa ng Pangulo stores, public markets, and local government outlets. Purchase limits will remain at 30 kilos per month for senior citizens and 10 kilos for other beneficiaries. The DA said beneficiaries will register using QR codes to ensure proper monitoring and accountability.
