The Department of Agriculture (DA) plans to expand its P29 per kilo rice program for vulnerable sectors to Visayas and Mindanao within 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,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. in a statement.
On Friday morning, July 5, the DA launched a “large-scale” trial of selling aging National Food Authority (NFA) buffer rice stock for P29 per kilo at 10 Kadiwa sites in Metro Manila and Bulacan. This program is available only to beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), senior citizens, persons with disabilities (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,” said Tiu Laurel. He acknowledged the efforts of the DA team, farmers’ cooperatives, and the military and police who volunteered to ensure affordable rice reaches Kadiwa centers and vulnerable households.
The trial aims to collect data in preparation for a 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,” Tiu Laurel said. This initiative is spearheaded by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ease the burden of high prices on essential goods, particularly rice.
In addition to the P29 rice program, the DA and its affiliated agencies are developing plans to provide well-milled rice at lower prices through Kadiwa centers.