By Kenneth Marcos 
In the heat of the midday sun, drivers of jeepneys and tricycles lined up patiently at a local distribution center in Basilan—hopeful faces, empty rice sacks in hand. For many, this was a rare opportunity to bring home a bag of rice at just P20 per kilo.
To help ease the burden of rising food costs, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has extended the P20 Benteng Bigas Program to include jeepney and tricycle drivers across the country. The move follows the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to ensure that essential food remains within reach for low-income sectors.
Through the National Food Authority (NFA), rice continues to be released from government warehouses to support the program. This expansion is part of the administration’s broader push under the “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign to prioritize food security and economic relief for vulnerable communities.
According to the DA, transport workers have long been among the hardest hit by inflation and fuel price hikes. “Malaking tulong ito sa amin. Mahirap kumita, pero mahal ang bilihin. Kaya kahit papaano, nakakaahon kami dahil sa Benteng Bigas,” said Rodel, a tricycle driver in Basilan who lined up as early as 6 a.m. to avail of the subsidized rice.
The program originally targeted the poorest families and senior citizens but has since widened to include other sectors such as public utility drivers, farmers, fisherfolk, and solo parents.
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the program is not just a one-time solution. “We are working to ensure a steady and affordable supply of rice while strengthening local production. Benteng Bigas is a temporary aid while we build long-term reforms in the rice industry,” he said.
The P20 rice is made possible through a mix of government subsidies and direct procurement of locally produced palay. NFA warehouses across the country have been instructed to coordinate with local government units to manage fair distribution.
In Basilan, where the latest distribution took place, local officials said the response has been overwhelming. “Kahit mga ordinaryong manggagawa, umaasa na rin. Hindi lang ito bigas, ito ay simbolo ng malasakit,” said one barangay captain involved in the coordination efforts.
The challenge now lies in sustaining the supply. As of now, stocks remain available, but the DA is calling on stakeholders—from rice farmers to millers—to help strengthen the supply chain. The agency is also pushing for increased funding and legislative support to expand the program further.
While critics argue that the P20 rice may not be sustainable in the long run without deeper reforms, supporters say that for now, the help is much needed and deeply appreciated.
As jeepney and tricycle drivers continue their daily struggle to earn a living, programs like Benteng Bigas offer not just food on the table, but hope for a more secure tomorrow.
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