La Union: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has partnered with the Department of Agriculture in the Ilocos Region to launch the 'Benteng Bigas, Meron Na' (BBM Na) program, offering rice at PHP20 per kilo. This initiative is set to benefit 11,000 minimum wage earners in La Union province beginning June 13.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE-Ilocos Region Director Exequiel Ronie Guzman announced during a recent forum that they have collaborated with the La Union Chamber of Commerce to identify the initial list of beneficiaries. The program, initially aimed at vulnerable sectors, has been extended to assist minimum wage earners who face financial challenges. Each eligible employee can purchase at least 10 kilos of rice under this scheme.

Guzman explained that employers are required to enter into a memorandum of agreement to participate in the program. The Food Terminal Incorporated will procure the rice from the National Food Authority (NFA), and the employers will then obtain the rice from the NFA. Employees will purchase the rice from their employers at the reduced price, although some employers have opted to provide it to their employees for free.

The program is expected to expand to other provinces within the region. Guzman expressed confidence in the sustainability of the initiative, with plans to continue it through the end of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s term in June 2028.