By Kenneth Marcos 
At dawn in Pangasinan, market vendors prepare their stalls while mothers line up early to buy rice that can stretch the family budget. With food prices still a daily concern, affordable rice has become a lifeline for many households.
The Department of Agriculture has announced the expansion of the government’s P20-per-kilo rice program, with Pangasinan set as one of the first provinces to benefit starting this January. Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. said the move is part of the Marcos administration’s broader plan to make affordable rice accessible to more Filipinos.
The P20 rice program allows qualified households to buy rice at just 20 pesos per kilo, far lower than prevailing market prices. The initiative is aimed at easing the burden on low-income families who spend a large share of their income on food, especially rice, the country’s main staple.
Secretary Tiu Laurel said Pangasinan was chosen for the January rollout because of its large population and strong role in agriculture and trade. The province is both a major rice producer and a key market area, making it strategic for the program’s expansion.
Under the government’s plan, the P20 rice program is expected to reach up to 15 million Filipino families by the end of 2026. The Department of Agriculture is working with other agencies and local government units to ensure proper distribution and smooth implementation.
The rice sold under the program comes from government-managed stocks, including supplies handled by the National Food Authority. Officials said careful planning is needed to balance support for consumers while also protecting the income of local rice farmers.
The DA stressed that the program is designed to help vulnerable sectors such as minimum wage earners, senior citizens, and low-income families. Local governments will help identify beneficiaries and manage distribution points to avoid overcrowding and ensure fairness.
Rising food prices have been a major issue for Filipino households in recent years. Rice prices, in particular, have been affected by higher production costs, weather-related disruptions, and global market pressures. The government sees the P20 rice program as a short- to medium-term measure to cushion the impact on ordinary consumers.
At the same time, the DA said it continues to invest in long-term solutions, including boosting local rice production, improving irrigation, and supporting farmers with better seeds and technology. These efforts aim to stabilize supply and reduce dependence on imports.
Officials reminded the public that the success of the program depends on proper coordination and transparency. Clear guidelines, orderly distribution, and close monitoring are needed to ensure that the rice reaches those who need it most.
As the program rolls out in Pangasinan this January, many families are hopeful that affordable rice will bring some relief to their daily expenses. For millions of Filipinos, the expansion of the P20 rice program represents not just cheaper food, but a small step toward greater food security and stability.
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