Bacolod: Newly milled rice produced by farmers in Negros Occidental was sold to an initial batch of Bacolodnons during the launch of the PHP20 per kg. rice under the 'Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na' program at the Burgos North Public Market here Thursday. For the initial rollout, the city has purchased 5,880 sacks of rice worth PHP7.971 million from the National Food Authority (NFA). The rice was produced by farmers in Bago City, Valladolid, and San Enrique.

According to Philippines News Agency, Luisa Belluga, 62, of Barangay 26, expressed gratitude to the government for providing the opportunity to purchase rice at a reduced price. Belluga joined other buyers in a taste test of the PHP20-per-kg. rice, alongside Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., and city officials led by Mayor Albee Benitez.

Rodolfo Lumayno, 72, of Barangay Banago, shared that the 10 kg. of rice he purchased would sustain his family of three for about a week. He noted the savings compared to the usual PHP42 per kilo rice he buys. Francisco Tolentino, 59, a tricycle driver from Barangay 26, emphasized the financial relief the affordable rice brings, allowing savings for other expenses.

In his address, Tiu Laurel expressed hopes that satisfied customers would spread the word about the quality of the PHP20-per-kg. rice. He affirmed the continuation of the program, which promises to make affordable rice available to those in need until 2028, as pledged by President Marcos.

Brenda Burdeos, head of the Cooperative and Livelihood Development Office, stated that in addition to Burgos Market, the rice was also sold at Central Market, Libertad South Public Market, and Bacolod City Government Center on Thursday. She mentioned that the rice stocks, milled and delivered directly to the Bacolod City Government Center, are being sold at a rate of 400 sacks daily.

Burdeos also revealed plans to extend the sale of PHP20-per-kg. rice to all 61 barangays after the initial market sales.