Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) has confirmed the availability of PHP20 per kilo rice under the Benteng Bigas Meron Na (BBM Na) initiative across Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) sites. This announcement follows a temporary shortage in select locations due to heightened demand for the subsidized rice last week.
According to Philippines News Agency, DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa stated in an ambush interview that the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) and the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS) have revised their strategies to maintain a steady supply of rice. "Wala tayong problema pagdating sa imbentaryo o volume na gagamitin para dito sa P20. Wala nang mauubusan," de Mesa assured, emphasizing that inventory issues have been addressed.
De Mesa acknowledged potential delays, noting that minor issues are expected but reassured that AMAS and FTI are actively resolving them. The agencies have increased their capacity significantly, with the central office now offering over 1,000 slots daily, a significant rise from the initial 200 slots provided amidst tensions in the Middle East.
These slots are available four to five days a week, ensuring accessibility to the public. The National Food Authority (NFA) has also contributed by releasing 10,000 bags of aging yet high-quality rice stocks for the BBM Na program. As of the end of March, the NFA holds over 400,000 metric tons of rice, sufficient for 15 days of national consumption, as confirmed by de Mesa.
