Quezon City: The Department of Agriculture (DA) has confirmed the launch of a PHP20 per kilogram rice initiative aimed at supporting the vulnerable sector, named 'Benteng Bigas Mayroon (BBM) Na,' at Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) centers throughout the National Capital Region (NCR) immediately following the May 12 midterm elections.

According to Philippines News Agency, DA Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra announced at a press conference in Quezon City that preparations are underway for the implementation of the program by May 13. Guevarra assured the public of the continued availability of PHP29 rice, transitioning to PHP20 after the elections. This initiative targets vulnerable groups such as members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and solo parents, using aging but good quality rice stocks from the National Food Authority (NFA).

Guevarra revealed that at least 19 KNP sites will participate in the Metro Manila rollout of the PHP20/kg rice program, following its initial launch in Cebu province on May 1. Starting May 13, the program will be available at several public markets including Kamuning Public Market in Quezon City, Mandaluyong Public Market I and II, and others across the NCR.

Additional KNP sites with Thursday operations will commence the BBM Na rollout on May 15. These locations include the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority in Las Pi±as City, Bureau of Plant Industry in Manila, and several other strategic points across Metro Manila.

The rollout will extend to Lingayen, Pangasinan, on May 15 as well. Each KNP site will receive a weekly supply of 50 sacks, totaling 950 sacks per week across the 19 sites. In Cebu province, for the pilot phase, 600,000 sacks will be delivered in batches.

The program is anticipated to benefit approximately 800,000 families, or four million individuals, primarily in the Visayas region, including Western, Central, and Eastern Visayas, and the Negros Island Region. The DA has set monthly purchase limits of 30 kg for the vulnerable sector in KNP sites, and 40 kg for each beneficiary in the Visayas region.

The initiative is supported by PHP4.5 billion in funds from the contingency fund of the Office of the President, with plans for nationwide implementation by January 2026.