The Department of Agriculture (DA) has expanded its ₱20-per-kilo rice program, “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!”, in Leyte and Samar to help more low-income families access affordable food.
In Palo, Leyte, over 5,000 people—including farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers, and minimum wage earners—received subsidized rice. The DA said up to 15,000 more beneficiaries may be included in the coming days.
At the same time, around 2,000 residents in Sta. Rita, Samar also benefited from the program through coordination with the local government.
Alongside rice distribution, KADIWA ng Pangulo outlets sold vegetables and other food products, helping both consumers and local farmers earn more income.
Agriculture officials said the program is helping stabilize palay prices during harvest season while ensuring farmers are paid fairly. It also aims to encourage continuous planting and strengthen food security.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the program is a key part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s food security plan to ensure affordable rice for all Filipinos while supporting farmers.
The DA plans to continue and expand the program until 2028, with a goal of reaching up to 60 million Filipinos by the end of the year.
