DA: P29/kilo rice available in Visayas, Mindanao by late Aug, early Sept

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is eyeing to expand the sale of P29 per kilo rice program for vulnerable sectors to the southern Philippines in the next two months.

“Our goal is to expand the number of Kadiwa centers offering P29 rice in the coming weeks and extend this network to the Visayas and Mindanao by late August or early September, in collaboration with local government units, farmers' cooperatives, and private businesses,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a statement.

On Friday morning, July 5, the DA simultaneously launched the “large-scale” trial of selling aging National Food Authority (NFA) buffer rice stock for P29 per kilo in 10 Kadiwa sites in Metro Manila and Bulacan.

The P29 per kilo rice is available only to 4Ps beneficiaries, senior citizens, PWDs, and solo parents.

"I extend my deepest gratitude to all who have tirelessly dedicated themselves to the successful launch of the large-scale trial of the P29 Rice Program,” Tiu Laurel said.

“From our tireless team at the DA, to the farmers' cooperatives and associations, to the selfless military and policemen who volunteered their efforts to ensure affordable rice reaches our KADIWA centers and vulnerable households, you have exemplified the true spirit of Bayanihan—the belief that 'We' is greater than 'Me'. Maraming Salamat po,” he said.

The mass trial of the P29 Rice Program was aimed at gathering data in preparation for the program's nationwide rollout.

“This trial period presents a crucial opportunity to gather comprehensive data on various aspects including demand, supply, and logistics that would ensure the success of the full implementation of P29, an initiative spearheaded by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ease the burden of high prices on essential goods, particularly rice, for the poor, senior citizens, solo parents, and persons with disabilities,” the Agriculture Secretary said.

“In addition to P29 rice, the DA and its affiliated agencies and corporations are actively developing plans to make well-milled rice available to the public through KADIWA centers at prices lower than prevailing market rates,” he said. — DVM, GMA Integrated News