Davao city: The PHP20 per kilogram rice program under the 'Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na' initiative may soon be available across all provinces in the Davao Region, as confirmed by the Department of Agriculture (DA).

According to Philippines News Agency, the announcement came after a magnitude 7.4 earthquake shook Manay town in Davao Oriental, registering an Intensity V in Davao City. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. communicated through a Viber message that the program's implementation would proceed as planned and is expected to assist the residents affected by the recent quake.

Secretary Laurel stated that the rollout in Davao City might start as early as Monday, followed by Davao del Sur. By the end of October, it is anticipated that all provinces in the Davao region will have access to the PHP20 per kilogram rice initiative.

Previously, the DA arranged the distribution of PHP20 per kilogram rice in regions affected by the 6.9-magnitude earthquake in Cebu, Masbate, and Eastern Samar to support local recovery efforts. In addition, Secretary Laurel has directed an immediate evaluation of the potential agricultural damage caused by the quake to devise suitable assistance for farmers and fishers.

Laurel emphasized the need for urgent action, instructing all regional directors to assess the affected areas and report on the damages promptly.