Manila: The government's Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na initiative has significantly contributed to the optimization of warehouse spaces across the country, as reported by the National Food Authority (NFA) on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, NFA Administrator Larry Lacson revealed that the continuous disposal of aging rice stocks has been facilitated by the rising demand for the PHP20 per kilo rice, a demand that has surged due to recent increases in oil prices. Lacson explained, "We have freed up many warehouses due to the P20," highlighting the program's impact on warehouse management.

The NFA Administrator noted the heightened demand for affordable rice as citizens seek ways to economize in the face of rising transport and fuel costs. He emphasized that the emergency milling operations under the country's energy emergency could further expedite the release of aging rice stocks.

As of April, the NFA has successfully released 54,000 metric tons of aging rice stocks to Food Terminal Incorporated (FTI) under the P20 program. Additionally, 40,000 metric tons have been disposed of to relief agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development, as part of efforts to sustain local palay procurement and support Filipino farmers.