Baguio: The city government is poised to commence the distribution of rice aid to 13,600 households qualifying for the rice assistance program, funded by the PHP56 million Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) allocated by the national government.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Benjamin Magalong announced that the aid would benefit indigent families, senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and qualified minimum wage earners residing in the city. The funding, received in February, is earmarked for residents struggling to meet their food needs. The mayor emphasized the timeliness of this aid, as it aims to support qualified residents amid ongoing crises.

The rice distribution initiative stems from the national government's rice program, which provides local governments with funds to procure rice supplies for indigent residents. The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) is responsible for preparing the list of beneficiaries, following a thorough registration, interview, assessment, and validation process.

CSWDO head Liza Bulayungan stated that identified families could receive up to one cavan or 50 kilos of rice, although this amount may vary based on family size. The distribution is scheduled to begin this month, occurring weekly to ensure a systematic rollout.

To facilitate an orderly distribution, rice will be dispensed by district, either by cluster or through assigned time slots at the National Food Authority warehouse in Loakan. The registration and assessment of beneficiaries have been underway since April 13, ensuring that aid reaches the most vulnerable sectors efficiently.