Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Tuesday expressed optimism that the PHP20 per kilogram rice program, known as 'Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na,' will lead to further reductions in rice retail prices. DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa highlighted that some retailers have already decreased their selling prices by PHP5 per kilogram in select markets across Metro Manila.
According to Philippines News Agency, de Mesa noted that the program is a crucial component of the government's market intervention strategy aimed at safeguarding consumer interests. 'Definitely may epekto iyan lalo na kung doon sa nananatili pa na mataas na presyo, unti-unti na bumaba (there's an effect, especially for those still offering higher prices, it's gradually dropping),' he explained.
The implementation of the P20/kg rice program is expected to impact rice retail prices further once the National Food Authority (NFA) releases 250 metric tons of rice under the BBM Na program. As of May 17, the prevailing price of 5 percent broken or premium imported rice is set at PHP45 per kg, with prices ranging from PHP43 to PHP55 per kg, according to the DA Bantay presyo (price watch).
Local and imported rice prices vary, with well-milled imported rice ranging from PHP38 to PHP48 per kg, and imported regular-milled rice costing PHP35 to PHP45 per kg. Local premium rice is priced between PHP44 and PHP60 per kg, while local well-milled rice ranges from PHP38 to PHP50 per kg, and local regular-milled rice costs between PHP33 and PHP43 per kg.
In addition to addressing retail prices, the DA plans to expand the PHP20 per kg rice program to include low to low-middle-income families, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to make affordable rice accessible to a broader segment of Filipinos. De Mesa emphasized that the program is not intended for affluent families but should benefit poorer households next in line after vulnerable sectors.
The ongoing first phase of the BBM Na program covers several regions, including Negros Oriental and Occidental, Samar, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Southern Leyte, Leyte, Bohol, Antique, Cebu, Iloilo, Capiz, Biliran, Guimaras, Siquijor, Aklan, and Mindoro. In July, Phase 2 will extend to Zamboanga del Norte, Basilan, Cotabato City, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao, Davao Oriental, and Sorsogon. The final phase will include Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte, Catanduanes, Agusan del Sur, Sarangani, and Dinagat Islands.
