Baguio: The National Irrigation Administration in the Cordillera Administrative Region (NIA-CAR) has successfully distributed 36,499 bags of PHP29/kg. Bagong Bayaning Magsasaka (BBM) rice to vulnerable groups throughout the region. This initiative aims to provide essential support to those in need while promoting local agriculture.

According to Philippines News Agency, NIA-CAR Director Benito Espique reported that these rice bags were produced under the Farming Support Services Program (FSSP), a rice-contracting program implemented by the agency in 2024 in the provinces of Kalinga and Apayao. These areas are recognized as the primary rice producers within the region. The FSSP is designed to support farmers who are part of irrigators' associations or irrigation service cooperatives by enabling them to enter into agreements with the NIA for the production of BBM rice.

The distribution took place at various Kadiwa ng Pangulo events across the region, including locations in Baguio City and Tabuk City, Kalinga, from January 1 to June 9, 2025. The program facilitated the sale of rice harvested from 440 hectares during the second cropping of 2024, with the resulting produce sold in the first quarter of 2025.

Espique noted that an additional 9,576 bags of rice from Apayao remain to be harvested from 38 hectares. Each bag distributed contained 10 kg of BBM rice, providing crucial food supplies to the region's vulnerable populations.

In particular, during two specific Kadiwa schedules on May 29 and June 5, NIA-CAR was able to distribute approximately 350 bags of BBM rice to targeted groups in Baguio and Benguet. The beneficiaries included 21 persons with disabilities (PWDs), 240 senior citizens, 50 indigents, and 39 solo parents, demonstrating a focused effort to reach those most in need.