In a landmark initiative to enhance food affordability for Filipino workers, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office No. 2 (DA-RFO 2), in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office No. 2 (DOLE RO 2) and the National Food Authority (NFA), officially launched the “BENTENG BIGAS” P20-per-kilogram rice program for minimum wage earners in the private sector of Region 2.

The ceremonial launch took place today at the DOLE Grounds, Regional Government Center, Carig, Tuguegarao City, marking a major milestone in the government’s continuing efforts to provide accessible, affordable food to the nation’s workforce.

The initiative aims to extend the reach of affordable rice beyond the traditionally supported vulnerable sectors—such as persons with disabilities, senior citizens, solo parents, and indigents—to now include minimum wage earners in the private sector. This program expansion is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to broaden the coverage of food assistance under his administration’s pro-poor and pro-labor agenda.

The P20 rice is an addition to the existing supply of affordable rice already made available through the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program, which includes Kadiwa on Wheels and Kadiwa Pop-up Stores. These rice products are directly sourced from farmers’ cooperatives and associations (FCAs), who are also beneficiaries of DA’s Rice Processing Centers and Systems, in partnership with the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech).

This move also fulfills President Marcos’ directive to sustain and expand the P20 Rice Program until 2028, ensuring that more Filipino families continue to benefit from accessible food staples.

In her message, DA-RFO 2 Regional Executive Director Rose Mary Aquino addressed concerns regarding the potential effects of the program on rice farmers. She clarified that far from being a burden, the initiative benefits farmers.

“Hindi po totoo na ang pagbebenta ng P20 na bigas ay pabigat sa ating mga magsasaka. Sa katunayan, makakatulong pa ito sa kanila sa pamamagitan ng mas mataas na presyo ng palay na binibili ng NFA,” Aquino said.

Director Aquino also commended the strong inter-agency collaboration that brought the program to fruition. She recognized DOLE RO 2’s instrumental role in ensuring the success of the initiative.

Director Aquino also took the opportunity to recognize the critical role of the private sector in the successful rollout of this program. “I would like to acknowledge the efforts of these private companies present here today. I commend you for taking part in this program. You are not just valuing your people—you also made a way for our rice farmers to have an assured market of their produce at a fair price by selling it to the National Food Authority,” she said. “Indeed, partnership with other agencies—both public and private—are key drivers to effecting positive change in the lives of Filipinos.”

Today’s launch stands as a powerful testament to the Marcos administration’s commitment to keeping affordable and quality rice within reach of every Filipino worker, while simultaneously strengthening the livelihood of Filipino rice farmers through fair and inclusive economic development.

Story and photos via Camille Francisco