The Department of Agriculture plans to expand the government’s P20-per-kilo rice program to all local government units in Metro Manila, a move that would widen access to heavily subsidized rice in the country’s most populous region.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. said the expansion is intended to ensure that affordable rice reaches more consumers, particularly in urban areas where food expenses remain a major concern. According to him, the department is coordinating with Metro Manila LGUs to implement the program across all cities and municipalities.
“This will be in every LGU in Metro Manila,” Laurel said, adding that the initiative requires close coordination with local governments to manage distribution and logistics.
The P20 rice program was initially rolled out in selected areas and sectors as part of efforts to provide lower-priced staple food to the public. The Department of Agriculture has since been studying ways to broaden its coverage, with Metro Manila identified as a priority area due to its large population and high demand for rice.
Laurel said the program is linked to the government’s broader food security efforts. He noted that making rice available at a lower price in urban centers could help ease pressure on household budgets, especially for families most affected by rising food costs.
Under the plan, rice sold at P20 per kilo will be distributed through local government channels, with the National Food Authority expected to play a role in supplying the stocks. The department acknowledged that coordination and delivery will be critical as the program scales up.
Questions have been raised in past discussions about the cost and long-term sustainability of subsidized rice programs. The Department of Agriculture said it is aware of these concerns and will monitor the Metro Manila rollout to assess implementation issues and outcomes.
For now, officials say the expansion will proceed in stages, with coordination between the national government and LGUs expected to guide how the program operates on the ground.
