The Department of Agriculture (DA) has begun a barangay-level rollout of its “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” (BBM Na!) program, offering rice at P20 per kilogram. The initiative launched on Sunday in Barangay Matina Crossing, Davao City, and was subsequently extended to Barangay Tungkalan in the Toril District.
Expanding Access to Affordable Rice
The program aims to increase public access to affordable rice across the country. DA Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing, and Consumer Affairs Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra led the initial rollout, joined by representatives from Food Terminal Inc., the National Food Authority, and local barangay captains.
Barangay Chairman Joel Santes of Matina Crossing welcomed the program, citing the high poverty incidence in Davao City. He stated a commitment to prioritizing vulnerable sectors among the nearly 44,000 residents of the city.
Assistant Secretary Guevarra explained that the timing is ideal for expansion, as DA warehouses currently have ample rice stocks. The program intends to balance support for both rice farmers and consumers.
Targeting Vulnerable Populations
The DA emphasized the importance of local government participation to ensure the program reaches those most in require, including indigents, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, minimum wage earners, and solo parents. The P20 Benteng Bigas Masterlist Registry System is being used to streamline the validation and purchasing process.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. Affirmed the DA’s commitment to food affordability, stating the program delivers on the president’s commitment to financially challenged Filipino households. The DA intends to expand the program to benefit as many as 60 million Filipinos by the end of the year and sustain it through June 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program?
It is a Department of Agriculture initiative to provide rice at P20 per kilogram to vulnerable populations.
Where did the program first launch?
The program first launched in Barangay Matina Crossing, Davao City, and was extended to Barangay Tungkalan, Toril District.
Who is leading the rollout of the program?
DA Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing, and Consumer Affairs Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra is leading the rollout.
As the DA expands this program, will it be able to maintain a consistent supply of affordable rice while also supporting local rice farmers?
