The Department of Agriculture (DA) has expanded its P20-per-kilogram rice program, known as Benteng Bigas Meron Na! (BBM Na!), to include San Juan City in Metro Manila. The rollout, which took place on Friday, aims to provide affordable rice to the public.
Expanding Access to Affordable Rice
The program, initially an electoral campaign promise of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., prioritizes vulnerable sectors. These include persons with disabilities, senior citizens, solo parents, beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, minimum wage earners, farmers and fisherfolk and transport workers.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora, and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Romando Artes attended the launch event in San Juan City. The DA had previously met with MMDA officials and representatives from local government units (LGUs) to discuss the program’s wider implementation in the National Capital Region.
To facilitate purchases, qualified beneficiaries are encouraged to register on the DA’s “P20” app. According to Secretary Tiu Laurel, the app will streamline transactions and help ensure equitable distribution of the rice supply.
The DA intends to establish at least five outlets for the program in each local government unit (LGU) within Metro Manila. Mayor Zamora has pledged his full support and encouraged other mayors to assist in the nationwide rollout.
The government views Benteng Bigas, Meron Na! as a key component of its broader food security strategy, aiming to reach 15 million households – or 60 million individuals – by the end of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Benteng Bigas program?
Benteng Bigas Meron Na! (BBM Na!) is a government program offering rice at P20 per kilogram, making affordable rice accessible to the public.
Who is eligible for the program?
The program prioritizes vulnerable sectors including persons with disabilities, senior citizens, solo parents, beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, minimum wage earners, farmers and fisherfolk, and transport workers.
How can beneficiaries access the program?
Qualified beneficiaries can register on the DA’s “P20” app for faster processing when purchasing rice. The DA aims to open at least five outlets per LGU in NCR.
As the program expands, will this initiative effectively address food security concerns for vulnerable populations in the Philippines?
