Quezon City: Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Tuesday called for support for the upcoming launch of the PHP20 per kilogram rice program in Visayas and Metro Manila. In a press conference at the DA central office, he emphasized that the program is not affiliated with any political efforts amid the upcoming May 12 midterm elections.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel urged the public to support the smooth implementation of the program, highlighting its potential benefits for all citizens regardless of political affiliation. "I'm not a politician so I don't really care," he stated, underscoring the non-partisan nature of the initiative.

The program is expected to benefit approximately four million individuals, or 800,000 families, through its pilot sales in Visayas, offering rice at the affordable price of PHP20 per kilogram. Tiu Laurel appealed to the public to avoid spreading fake news and slander, stressing the importance of not sabotaging a program designed to aid Filipinos.

The rice to be sold under the program is a mixture of soon-to-age and aging rice from the National Food Authority. Tiu Laurel noted that if the rice spoils, it will be sold as feed for pigs at PHP3 per kilogram.

The DA is currently working on ensuring a more sustainable and organized implementation of the program. Plans include developing a 'software system' and issuing a card for each beneficiary to streamline distribution and management.