Pangasinan: The municipal government of Malasiqui is distributing five kilos of rice to a total of 46,000 households to mitigate the impact of recent fuel price hikes. "Very timely na ngayon i-release. Nasa 31 barangays na ang natapos," Mayor Alfe Soriano shared in an interview, highlighting that the rice distribution has already been completed in 31 out of the town's 73 barangays.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative counts recipients per household rather than per family, as multiple families often reside in one house. Mayor Soriano emphasized that each household, regardless of economic status, will receive the rice subsidy. "If there are more than one family in a house, they just share in the five kilos rice," he added.

Melanie Episcope, a local resident, expressed gratitude for the assistance, noting its significance for her family. Her husband, a jeepney driver, faces financial challenges due to the fuel price increases. "Nagpapasalamat po kami sa ayuda na ito. Malaking bagay na po ito para sa amin. Ilang hain na rin po kainan ito," Episcope stated, appreciating the relief the rice provides for her household.