By Kenneth Marcos 
Smiles and cheers filled the air as long lines of farmers, fishers, and families formed early in the morning outside the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) compound in Davao City. Their excitement was clear—₱20 per kilo rice, part of the government’s “Benteng Bigas Meron na Para sa mga Magsasaka at Mangingisda” program, officially arrived in Mindanao.
The initiative was launched on October 24, led by Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco “Kiko” P. Laurel Jr., together with top officials from the BPI and partner agencies. Among those who joined the ribbon-cutting ceremony were BPI Assistant Director Dr. Herminigilda A. Gabertan, BPI Biotechnology Office OIC Head Geronima P. Eusebio, BPI Davao OIC Center Chief Flor De Hasmin C. Bayo, and former DA Undersecretary Evelyn G. Laviña.
National Food Authority (NFA) Administrator Larry Lacson also took part in the event, holding an open forum with farmers to directly listen to their concerns and suggestions for improving rice production and market access.
Following the success of earlier rollouts at BPI Malate and the BPI Los Baños National Crop Research, Development, and Production Support Center, this Davao launch marks another milestone in bringing affordable rice closer to local communities while continuing to support Filipino farmers through fair trade and government-backed initiatives.
Secretary Laurel said the program aims to show that food affordability can go hand in hand with agricultural development. “This is not just about cheaper rice,” he said. “It’s about giving our farmers and fishers the support they deserve so they can continue feeding our nation.”
The event also became a celebration of the local agricultural sector. Farmers’ cooperatives, women’s organizations, agribusiness companies, and members of the Floriculture Industry of Davao showcased their products—from ornamental plants to organic produce—highlighting the diversity and strength of Mindanao’s farming community.
The “Benteng Bigas” project is part of the Marcos administration’s broader effort to achieve food security under the Bagong Pilipinas framework, ensuring that every Filipino family can access affordable and nutritious food. The program also encourages regional production centers to sell directly to consumers, cutting unnecessary middlemen costs that often raise rice prices.
For many Dabawenyos, the arrival of ₱20 rice offers not only relief from rising food prices but also renewed hope that government efforts are reaching those who need them most. As the initiative expands, more regions are expected to launch their own local “Benteng Bigas” distribution points in the coming months.
With strong cooperation between government agencies and farming communities, the vision of accessible and sustainable rice for all Filipinos may soon become a lasting reality.
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