Philippines Extends Affordable Rice Program to Fisherfolk, Targets Millions More Households
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Manila, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture (DA) will broaden the reach of its P20 per kilogram (kg) rice program, officially known as “Benteng Bigas Meron Na!” (BBM Na!), to include the nation’s fisherfolk by the end of this month.This strategic expansion aims to provide affordable rice access to a vital sector of the Philippine population.
Program Details and eligibility
eligible fisherfolk will be able to purchase up to 10 kilograms of rice per month. The program will initially launch at fish ports operated by the Philippine Fisheries progress Authority (PFDA). Following this initial phase, weekly rollouts are planned across provinces with active National Food Authority (NFA) depots, continuing until the end of 2025. This phased approach ensures efficient distribution and accessibility.
The DA estimates that approximately 2.9 million fisherfolk will benefit from this expansion. The program originally targeted senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). It has sence been extended to include minimum wage earners, recipients of the Department of social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Walang Gutom program, and farmers and farmworkers registered with the DA’s Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture.
did You Know? The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is a conditional cash transfer program aimed at reducing poverty and improving the health and education of the poorest families in the Philippines. [DSWD 4Ps Program]
Current Reach and Future Goals
Currently, the program serves nearly 400,000 families nationwide. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. described scaling up the P20 program as the DA’s “biggest challenge,” with a goal to reach 15 million households, representing around 60 million individuals, by 2026. Achieving this ambitious target requires a coordinated effort across the entire agency.
“We have the stocks. We have the budget. What we need now is urgency and unity,” Secretary Tiu Laurel stated, highlighting a proposed P10-billion increase in funding for the rice program within the 2026 national budget. This increased investment underscores the government’s commitment to food security and affordability.
| Program Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Benteng Bigas Meron Na! (BBM Na!) |
| rice Price | P20 per kilogram |
| Initial Target Beneficiaries (Fisherfolk) | 2.9 million |
| Overall Target (by 2026) | 15 million households / 60 million individuals |
| Budget Increase (Proposed 2026) | P10 billion |
Public Response and Presidential Support
Despite some criticism, Secretary Tiu Laurel asserts that the initiative has garnered significant public support. “Some called it insulting,” he acknowledged, “But on the ground, demand [has] told a different story.” This suggests a strong need for affordable rice among the population.
President Ferdinand Marcos jr. has issued a directive to the DA to maintain the P20/kg rice program until the end of his term in 2028, demonstrating the governance’s long-term commitment to food price stabilization. This sustained support is crucial for the program’s continued success.
Pro Tip: Understanding the role of the National Food Authority (NFA) is key to grasping the Philippines’ food security strategies. The NFA is the primary government agency responsible for ensuring the availability and affordability of staple foods. [National Food Authority Website]
What impact do you think this program will have on food security in the Philippines? How can similar initiatives be implemented in other countries facing food affordability challenges?
Context and Background: Food Security in the philippines
The Philippines, an archipelagic nation heavily reliant on agriculture and fisheries, consistently faces challenges related to food security. Factors such as climate change, import dependence, and fluctuating global prices contribute to vulnerability. The BBM Na! program represents a direct intervention to mitigate the impact of rising rice costs on vulnerable populations. Rice is a staple food in the Philippines, and its affordability is a critical determinant of household welfare.According to the Food and agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), ensuring access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food is a basic human right ([FAO Right to Food]). This program aligns with that principle.
frequently Asked Questions
- what is the Benteng Bigas Meron Na! program? It’s a government initiative offering rice at P20 per kilogram to eligible beneficiaries.
- Who is eligible for the BBM Na! program? Initially, it included senior citizens, PWDs, solo parents, and 4Ps beneficiaries, but now includes minimum wage earners, Walang Gutom recipients, and farmers/farmworkers.
- How much rice can fisherfolk purchase? Eligible fisherfolk can buy up to 10 kilograms of rice per month.
- What is the DA’s long-term goal for this program? The DA aims to reach 15 million households (around 60 million individuals) by 2026.
- Is the program facing any criticism? while some have criticized the program, the DA reports strong public demand and support.
We hope this article has provided valuable insight into the Philippines’ efforts to ensure food security. Share this information with your network and join the conversation in the comments below! subscribe to our newsletter for more breaking news and in-depth analysis.