San Juan City: Consumers lauded the government's efforts to reduce rice prices as they availed of the National Food Authority (NFA) rice sale worth PHP33 per kilogram or PHP1,650 per sack on Monday in San Juan City.
According to Philippines News Agency, San Juan is one of the initial participating local government units (LGUs) during the first release of NFA rice stock in Valenzuela City on Feb. 19 under the declaration of a food security emergency for rice. Other LGUs include Valenzuela, Navotas, and Camarines Sur, while 67 LGUs also expressed their intent to procure NFA rice stocks from the Food Terminal Incorporated (FTI).
During the first day of the PHP33/kg NFA rice sale in San Juan, Jennifer Francisco, 48, expressed that the cheaper rice would be beneficial for her family as she tries to stretch her budget for her four children alongside grandchildren. She noted that the savings from the reduced rice price could be used to cover additional food expenses.
Ivy Ramos, 56, another San Juan resident who has a rice farm in Nueva Ecija, mentioned that she would assess the rice's quality for both personal consumption and for her pets. She expressed gratitude, stating the 50-kg volume would likely last for a month at a much lower cost compared to her usual expenses for pet rice.
Both Francisco and Ramos were eligible buyers in San Juan as they secured pre-registration for the purchase of 50 kgs of NFA rice. The San Juan LGU procured at least 1,000 sacks last Feb. 19 for immediate distribution to its constituents.
Metro Manila council president and San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora highlighted the significance of the day's events, suggesting that the initiative could serve as a model for other LGUs in Metro Manila. He also mentioned the possibility of adjusting sales to meet demand for smaller quantities.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. participated in the inaugural day sale, emphasizing the need to clear NFA warehouse spaces for the upcoming palay procurement during the peak harvest season. Participating LGUs nationwide will have a monthly allocation of approximately 625,600 bags, equivalent to over 150,000 metric tons for the next six months.
