By Kenneth Marcos 
Early in the morning, long lines formed outside the covered court of Sison, Pangasinan. Many residents—mostly senior citizens, mothers, and daily wage earners—came carrying empty rice sacks and high hopes. That day marked the official launch of the “P20 Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program, a government initiative promising quality rice at just ₱20 per kilo.
This program is part of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s goal to bring affordable rice to Filipinos, especially amid rising food prices and economic challenges. The launch in Sison is one of the first rollouts under the New National Food Authority (NFA) reforms, which aim to stabilize rice supply and support local farmers.
Only selected beneficiaries can initially avail of the ₱20 rice, based on criteria set by local government units and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). These include low-income families, solo parents, and senior citizens, who will be given special purchase stubs or IDs.
According to the NFA, the rice being sold under the program is locally sourced, helping both consumers and Filipino farmers. The agency stressed that this rice is clean, well-milled, and meets national food standards.
“This is not just about cheap rice,” said NFA Administrator Roderico Bioco during the launch event. “It’s about bringing relief to struggling families while also boosting our local rice production.”
Sison Mayor Danilo Uy welcomed the program, saying it came at the right time. “Many of our people can’t afford commercial rice anymore. This program is a big help for those trying to survive day by day,” he said.
Currently, commercial rice in the market sells for ₱45 to ₱55 per kilo. Even the cheaper varieties usually cost more than ₱40 per kilo, making rice one of the heaviest expenses for Filipino households.
The program also supports the broader goal of food security under the Bagong Pilipinas campaign, which emphasizes accessible, affordable, and sustainable food for all Filipinos. It aligns with government efforts to reduce dependency on rice imports and invest more in local agriculture.
However, experts caution that the sustainability of the ₱20 rice program depends on careful planning. They say continued government support is needed to subsidize costs and ensure that farmers are paid fairly.
Some concerns have also been raised about supply. The NFA assured the public that the rollout will be done gradually and strategically, starting in areas with the greatest need and enough rice buffer stock.
As more provinces prepare for their own launches of the ₱20 rice, many Filipino families are watching closely—hoping that this promise of affordable food becomes a lasting reality, not just a campaign slogan.
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