The Department of Agriculture (DA) is accelerating the nationwide implementation of its P20-per-kilogram rice initiative. This move comes as the government grapples with an ongoing energy emergency and rising logistics costs that have impacted market prices.
Scaling Up the BBM Na! Program
Under the direction of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” (BBM Na!) program is being expanded. The scale-up includes opening more distribution outlets and extending selling hours to increase accessibility.
During the first quarter, the DA reported 932 selling sites across the country. These locations include Kadiwa outlets, National Food Authority (NFA) warehouses, local government units, national government agencies, and sellers accredited by the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI).
The DA plans to nearly double its current reach by adding 900 more selling sites. Priority for this rollout will be given to “high-need” provinces, specifically Cebu, Bukidnon, Capiz, Cotabato, and Catanduanes.
Addressing Market Instability
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. Stated that while food supply remains sufficient, elevated fuel and logistics costs are straining the budgets of many Filipinos. He noted that expanding access to essential goods is intended to protect vulnerable sectors while the government works to stabilize supply, and prices.
FTI President Joseph Lo highlighted that external conflicts have contributed to market instability. This environment has led to a significant increase in consumers seeking out government outlets to access quality rice at a lower cost.
Sustainability and Farmer Support
The program targets specific eligible groups, including senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, farmers, fisherfolk, and those covered by the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.
To support the initiative, the FTI and NFA have agreed to procure 1.8 million 50-kilogram sacks of well-milled rice. This utilizes a P3-billion budget, which is part of a larger P10-billion fund allocated for the “Rice for All” program.
NFA administrator Larry Lacson emphasized that the budget is designed to secure better prices for farmers during harvest. In certain areas, the NFA has already increased its buying price to as much as P30 per kilo to prevent farmgate palay prices from dropping.
To maintain sustainability, revenue from the P20/kilo rice sales will be reinvested into purchasing more palay from local farmers. The NFA is selling existing stocks to create warehouse space, allowing for continued palay procurement.
Future Outlook
The government may continue to expand its network to meet rising demand. FTI President Joseph Lo indicated a target of reaching 1,800 selling sites nationwide by the conclude of 2026.
Depending on market conditions, the government could further adjust buying prices for palay to ensure that the program remains beneficial for both the consumer and the producer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to purchase the P20-per-kilogram rice?
Eligible beneficiaries include senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, farmers, fisherfolk, and individuals covered by the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.
How many selling sites does the government aim to establish?
While there were 932 sites in the first quarter, the government targets a total of 1,800 selling sites nationwide by the end of 2026.
How does the program protect local farmers?
The program reinvests revenue from rice sales into purchasing palay from local farmers. In some areas, the NFA has increased buying prices to P30 per kilo to prevent farmgate prices from crashing.
Do you believe expanding government-run rice outlets is the most effective way to counter rising logistics costs?
