MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA)’s subsidized P20-per-kilogram well-milled rice program has achieved full coverage in Samar provinces, with outlets now operational in all municipalities of Samar, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar as of December 18, 2025. The expansion, part of the “Benteng Bigas Meron Na!” initiative, brings affordable staples to remote barangays in time for the holiday season, easing burdens on low-income families amid lingering post-typhoon recovery.
DA Eastern Visayas Regional Director Angel Enriquez announced the milestone: “From Calbayog to Guiuan, every town now has access points—Kadiwa centers, rolling stores, and partner cooperatives.” Beneficiaries, limited to 10 kg per household weekly, include 4Ps families, seniors, solo parents, PWDs, and IPs, with stocks sourced 100% from local harvests to support farmers.
The rollout follows Samar’s early pilot success, where uptake exceeded 85% and farmgate prices stabilized. With over 1.5 million bags distributed nationwide since launch, the program targets vulnerable regions first, now fully saturating the three Samar provinces (total population ~2 million).
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. tied the achievement to broader food security goals: “No province left behind—P20 rice ensures plates stay full this Christmas.” Future phases include mobile vans for isolated sitios and digital pre-ordering.
For Samar residents rebuilding after Typhoon Uwan, this island-wide access isn’t just affordability—it’s assurance, turning subsidized sacks into symbols of solidarity in the season of giving.
Coverage Snapshot (Samar Provinces):
| Province | Municipalities Covered | Key Outlets |
|---|---|---|
| Samar | All 26 | Kadiwa, co-ops, public markets |
| Eastern Samar | All 23 | Rolling stores, barangay halls |
| Northern Samar | All 24 | Partner retailers, mobile units |