Ilocos norte: The provincial government of Ilocos Norte has commenced a rice distribution program aimed at assisting vulnerable families affected by rising food prices. This initiative, launched on Wednesday, focuses on providing essential support to those most impacted by the escalating costs of living.

According to Philippines News Agency, the program is part of the national government's Financial Assistance to Local Government Units (FALGU) initiative. It targets 8,749 low-income families, including solo parents, tricycle drivers, construction workers, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. Each beneficiary received 10 kilos of rice at various distribution sites in the cities of Laoag and Batac, as well as in the nearby town of Sarrat.

During the ceremonial distribution at the Ilocos Norte Trading Center in Batac City, Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos expressed gratitude towards President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his commitment to combating hunger and for allocating nearly PHP15 billion to this initiative. She urged recipients to remain patient as the distribution lists are consolidated, emphasizing the program's importance amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has exacerbated fuel and food price hikes.

Mayor Mark Christian Chua further announced that Batac's city government would be organizing an additional food distribution for 3,809 beneficiaries, complementing the provincial rice initiative. He encouraged the community to appreciate every form of assistance during these challenging times.

Filirose Mark Battulayan, a farm worker from Barangay Camguidan, acknowledged the significance of government programs like this, noting their critical role in helping families manage their needs. The rice distribution program, in partnership with local government units, not only provides immediate food relief but also supports local farmers, addressing the dual challenges posed by international tensions and local economic pressures.