Ilocos norte: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in collaboration with the National Food Authority (NFA) is set to launch a program providing rice at PHP20 per kilo to marginalized earners in Ilocos Norte this July. This initiative aims to deliver affordable rice to residents, fulfilling a national promise.

According to Philippines News Agency, Janelyn Martin, head of DOLE-Ilocos Norte, confirmed that coordination efforts are underway with private establishments to implement the program within the month. Martin noted the ongoing collaboration and preparations, although the specific number of beneficiaries within the province is yet to be finalized.

The program forms part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s commitment to distribute affordable rice to approximately 15 million beneficiaries from vulnerable sectors across the country. In a statement, NFA-Ilocos Norte manager Jonathan Corpuz mentioned that the rice agency is prepared to proceed as soon as DOLE provides authorization. He emphasized that the NFA currently maintains adequate stock in both palay and rice to support the initiative.

Corpuz highlighted that the current stockpile is continuously replenished due to ongoing milling and procurement operations. The NFA-Ilocos Norte aims to procure a total of 320,000 bags this year at a buying price of PHP23 per kilo.