Batanes: More Filipinos are expected to benefit from the government's Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na program as the Department of Agriculture (DA) launched the cheaper rice initiative alongside the distribution of PHP13 million worth of agricultural interventions in Batanes on Thursday. DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the initiative underscores President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s commitment to food security and price stability.

According to Philippines News Agency, the P20 Rice Project is seen as a testament to the President's compassion for every Filipino family. Secretary Laurel emphasized that the initiative is not just about providing affordable rice but also about promoting dignity, equality, and hope for Filipino families, regardless of their location.

The program targets members of the vulnerable sector, including senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) members, minimum wage earners, farmers, fishers, and transport workers, among others. It is now available in Batanes and 350 other sites nationwide.

In addition to the rice rollout, the DA provided motorized fishing boats, chest freezers, chilling tanks, and farming tools valued at over PHP13 million. These resources are intended to assist 374 recipients in overcoming climate-related challenges. Secretary Laurel highlighted the resilience and hard work of the Ivatans in facing these unique challenges.

Furthermore, the DA introduced the inaugural Soil Fertility Map of Batanes to guide farmers in the proper use of fertilizers and improve local production and soil health. This tool aims to support science-based planning by identifying nutrient gaps, such as deficiencies in phosphorus and potassium.