Butuan city: Five outlets in the Caraga Region continue to sell rice at PHP20 per kg. under the "Benteng Bigas Meron Na" program, officials said Friday. The Department of Agriculture (DA) 13 (Caraga) and the National Food Authority (NFA) 13 jointly run the initiative, which will operate until December. It prioritizes farmers, fisherfolk, senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, minimum wage earners, and transport workers.
According to Philippines News Agency, Amielou Mendoza of the NFA-13 information office said outlets have already sold 1,661 bags of affordable rice to target beneficiaries. "From the opening day, a total of 2,500 bags of rice were authorized for sale in the five outlets across the region," Mendoza said. She confirmed that agencies have enough supply to sustain the program through December, noting that replenishments for consumed stocks in Butuan City and Bayugan City are approved and ready for delivery.
Felomino Tanghalin, a 52-year-old tricycle driver from Libertad, Butuan City, expressed gratitude for the program. "I was able to buy 10 kg. last week at PHP200 only. This is a big help to my family," Tanghalin said. Outlets are located in Butuan City; Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur; Surigao City; Tandag City, Surigao del Sur; and San Jose, Dinagat Islands. They operate Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
