Pulupandan: The Federation of Irrigators' Association of Central Negros-Bago River Irrigation System (FIACN-BRIS) continues to sell rice at PHP20 per kilogram as part of their ongoing effort to provide affordable rice to vulnerable groups in the province.

According to Philippines News Agency, FIACN-BRIS president Pedro Limpangog reported that 2,500 kilograms of rice were sold during the latest 'Bigasan ng Bayan' event held in Pulupandan, Negros Occidental. This initiative aligns with the PHP20 per kilogram rice program championed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Limpangog noted that in Pulupandan, rice was distributed in five-kilogram portions to 500 beneficiaries, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries. The initiative, which began by selling rice at PHP25 per kilogram, has adapted to meet the national program's pricing.

In the previous month, the 'Bigasan ng Bayan' program also reached Murcia town, distributing another 2,500 kilograms of rice. Initially launched in October 2023 at the province's Food Terminal Market in Bacolod City, the initiative aims to extend its reach across more areas in the province.

Limpangog emphasized the importance of continued support from the provincial government, which provides farm inputs to help expand the program. Anticipating increased supply by June, the FIACN-BRIS aims to further widen the reach of the 'Bigasan ng Bayan' across Negros Occidental.

The collaboration with the provincial government is part of the Dagyaw Project, under the National Irrigation Administration-Negros Occidental Irrigation Management Office, which focuses on producing high-yield rice at a lower production cost.