By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the morning sun in a small palengke in Nueva Ecija, long lines of mothers and senior citizens form outside a rice stall marked with a simple sign: “P20 Bigas – Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” For many families struggling to make ends meet, the promise of affordable rice is now a reality.
The government’s flagship food program under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” or BBM Na!, has now expanded to cover 81 provinces across the country. The Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed that by the end of October, the program had reached nearly all regions, with only Tawi-Tawi awaiting its official rollout.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the milestone, saying the government is determined to bring down rice prices and ensure food security for every Filipino. “Nasa 81 lalawigan na tayo sa pagtatapos ng Oktubre, at tanging ang Tawi-Tawi na lamang ang pinakahuling probinsiyang pagtatayuan ng bandila ng BBM Na!,” Laurel said.
The Benteng Bigas program aims to provide rice at a subsidized price of P20 per kilo, targeting low-income families and vulnerable communities most affected by rising food costs. The project works through partnerships with local government units, the National Food Authority (NFA), and farmer cooperatives.
According to the DA, the program also helps support local farmers by purchasing their palay at fair prices. The rice is then milled and distributed through accredited outlets nationwide, including Kadiwa centers, public markets, and mobile rolling stores.
Analysts say the program’s expansion comes at a critical time. The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that the price of well-milled rice has risen by more than 20 percent compared to last year, putting pressure on household budgets. By providing cheaper rice, the government hopes to stabilize prices and reduce the impact of inflation, especially in rural and urban poor communities.
While the initiative has gained wide support, some agricultural groups urge the DA to ensure transparency and sustainability. Experts point out that long-term solutions—such as improving irrigation, lowering production costs, and reducing rice import dependency—are key to maintaining affordable prices.
For now, many Filipinos are simply grateful. “Malaking tulong talaga. Dati, halos P60 na ang kilo ng bigas dito sa amin,” said Maricel, a mother of three from Camarines Sur. “Ngayon, kahit papaano, nakakaraos na kami.”
As the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program continues to grow, it represents not only a step toward food security but also hope for millions of families striving for a better life.
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