News Details

DA launches ?20/kg rice program, extends ?13-M agri, fisheries aid in Batanes

NPO

•

October 10, 2025

MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has rolled out its Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na program in Batanes, offering rice at ₱20 per kilo while simultaneously distributing more than ₱13 million worth of agricultural and fisheries assistance to local farmers and fishers.

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the initiative reflects President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to ensuring food security and price stability nationwide.

“Ang PHP20 rice project ay patunay ng malasakit ng ating Pangulo sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino (The ₱20 Rice Project is proof of the President’s compassion for every Filipino family),” Laurel said during the launch in Basco. “Hindi lamang ito tungkol sa bigas. Ito ay tungkol sa dignidad, pagkakapantay-pantay, at pag-asa para sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino—kahit gaano kalayo (This is not just about rice. It is about dignity, equality, and hope for every Filipino family—no matter how far they are).”

The program’s beneficiaries include vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) members, minimum wage earners, farmers, fishers, and transport workers. It is now available in Batanes and in 350 other sites nationwide.

As part of the support package, the DA also handed over motorized fishing boats, chest freezers, chilling tanks, and farm tools worth more than ₱13 million to 374 recipients, many of whom are grappling with climate-related challenges.

Laurel likewise turned over Batanes’ first Soil Fertility Map, which identifies nutrient deficiencies such as phosphorus and potassium. The tool is expected to guide farmers in adopting science-based fertilizer use and boost local productivity.

“Alam natin na ang Batanes ay may kakaibang hamon. Pero alam din natin na ang mga Ivatan ay matatag, masipag, at may pusong handang magbuwis ng lakas para sa kanilang bayan (We know Batanes faces unique challenges. But we also know the Ivatans are resilient, hardworking, and deeply committed to their province),” Laurel said.

NPO News Team | PNA-PR