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The Department of Agriculture (DA) has increased the monthly allocation for the beneficiaries of its cheaper rice program to 30 kilos.

The DA said vulnerable sectors under its program could now purchase up to 30 kilos of rice every month from the previous allocation of 10 kilos. 

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the new policy would be implemented nationwide immediately. The P29 rice is sold at Kadiwa stores and centers.

“We urge you to take advantage of this new policy, which responds to the calls from our financially-challenged fellow citizens for greater access to more affordable food, especially rice,” Laurel said in a statement. 

The DA said vulnerable sectors, such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, and indigents, account for several million Filipinos covered by the government’s P29 program. 

It added that rice supplies sold under this initiative are sourced from the National Food Authority’s (NFA) buffer stocks.

The DA launched the P29 program in July 2024 as part of efforts to provide affordable rice options for vulnerable sectors. 

Furthermore, the agency widened Filipinos’ rice options by implementing its Rice-for-All (RFA) program, which allows consumers to purchase rice at reduced prices. 

Currently, prices under the RFA stand at P43 per kilo for rice with 5 percent broken grains, P35 per kilo for rice with 25 percent broken grains, and P33 per kilo for 100 percent broken grains. 

More Kadiwa stores

Meanwhile, the DA and the National Housing Authority (NHA) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that would establish Kadiwa stores across NHA projects.

The DA will assist in identifying and establishing Kadiwa stores or centers at NHA-designated locations and will provide logistical and technical support to ensure the program’s implementation.

“This memorandum of understanding between the Department of Agriculture and the NHA represents a crucial step in integrating food security into housing communities,” Laurel said.

“Providing homes is essential, but true community development goes beyond shelter. It must also include sustainable food systems, livelihood opportunities, and economic stability.”

Source : businessmirror