News Details

PBBM: 20/ Kilo Rice Program “Here to Stay,” to Expand in More Markets Nationwide

NPO

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July 6, 2025

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing affordable rice to Filipino families, announcing that the ₱20 per kilo rice program is not a temporary intervention, but a sustainable national initiative.

In his latest vlog aired Sunday, Marcos emphasized that the low-cost rice—currently available through Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets—is set to roll out in more public markets across the country, particularly targeting vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, minimum wage earners, and indigent families. The initiative, branded as “Benteng Bigas Meron na! (BBM)”, is projected to benefit at least one million households by year-end.

“₱20 rice is here to stay. It is achievable, it is sustainable. Kaya abangan ninyo in your nearest public markets,” said the President, reaffirming his campaign promise to combat food insecurity.

To address concerns about farmers' welfare, President Marcos assured that palay prices are safeguarded, with the National Food Authority (NFA) purchasing wet palay at ₱18/kg and dry palay at ₱19–₱23/kg. He also noted the government’s investments in processing facilities and dryers to reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen farmers’ bargaining power.

The program has already delivered 804,000 kilos of rice to over 105,000 families from Luzon and Visayas, with 94 outlet sites operational as of June 30. During the launch at Zapote Public Market in Bacoor, Cavite, Marcos highlighted the crucial role of local government units (LGUs) in ensuring service delivery and agricultural transformation.

“Tapos na po ang bahagi ng politika, serbisyo publiko na ang haharapin niyo ngayon,” he told newly seated officials, urging unified efforts between local and national governments.

President Marcos concluded by reaffirming that food security remains a top national priority, through a resilient agricultural value chain—from farm to market.

NPO News Team! 

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