Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has approved an exemption for the Department of Agriculture's (DA) PHP20-per-kilogram rice project from the election ban outlined in Section 261 (V) of the Omnibus Election Code. This exemption allows the continuation of the rice initiative despite the election-related restrictions.
According to Philippines News Agency, the exemption is based on Comelec Resolution No. 11060, as amended by Resolution No. 11118. A memorandum signed by Comelec Chair George Garcia, issued on Friday, confirmed the commission's approval of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.'s request to exempt the rice initiative. This initiative supports the DA's ongoing field operations and rice programs.
Chair Garcia stated, "By virtue of the authority granted under the said resolutions, the recommendation of the Law Department is hereby approved." The rice project, which has a total budget of PHP5 billion, is scheduled to run until 2028.
The exemption comes with specific conditions to ensure fairness during the election period. Implementation of the program must not influence the May 12, 2025, National and Local Elections. Additionally, the distribution of financial aid programs, such as 'ayuda', TUPAD, AKAP, AICS, and 4Ps, is prohibited from May 2 to May 12, 2025. Furthermore, candidates and elective officials are barred from participating in distribution activities.
The DA is required to adhere to guidelines set by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and other agencies, submit periodic disbursement reports, and ensure transparency through media and public access.
The PHP20-per-kilogram rice sale is set to launch in the Visayas next week, fulfilling a campaign promise made by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in 2022. Under this program, indigent Filipinos are eligible to purchase rice at the reduced price.
Each family will be limited to a 10-kilogram purchase per week or a total of 40 kilograms per month. The DA has indicated plans to expand the sale of rice at PHP20 per kilogram nationwide once logistical challenges are resolved.
