The Lapu-Lapu City Government relaunched its P20-per-kilo rice program on Monday, May 11, 2026, aiming to make affordable rice accessible amid rising prices of basic commodities.
Launch Event and Initial Distribution
The launch took place at the Lapu-Lapu City Auditorium in Barangay Poblacion. Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan announced that the initiative initially benefited nearly 1,000 residents from vulnerable sectors, with 200 sacks of subsidized rice distributed during the event. Each beneficiary received 10 kilograms of rice under the city government's ongoing food security program.
"We remain committed to easing the burden of rising costs for our vulnerable sectors," King-Chan said.
Partnership and Implementation
Implemented in partnership with the Food Terminal Incorporated (FTI) and the Department of Agriculture, the initiative allows the city government to purchase rice at a subsidized price and sell it for only P20 per kilogram to qualified beneficiaries. These include senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, 4Ps beneficiaries, fisherfolk, and other residents.
Number of Qualified Beneficiaries
Councilor Annabeth Cuizon, chairperson of the Committee on Social Services, told SunStar Cebu that a total of 64,241 beneficiaries from various vulnerable sectors are qualified to purchase rice under the program. Of these, 41,275 are senior citizens, 11,895 are PWDs, 5,427 are solo parents, and 5,644 are 4Ps beneficiaries.
Cuizon noted that in March, 1,835 sacks of rice were sold to 7,813 beneficiaries under the P20-per-kilo rice program. Distribution is scheduled from Monday to Thursday, serving at least 300 beneficiaries each day.
Funding and Sustainability
Earlier, the city government allocated P3 million from its general fund to purchase additional rice beyond what is distributed through FTI. Cuizon explained that the P3 million allocation is equivalent to nearly 3,000 sacks of rice. However, the initial phase is not yet sufficient to cover all 64,241 vulnerable sector beneficiaries.
She stated that once the 3,000 sacks are exhausted, the city government will purchase another batch using proceeds from the first sale, ensuring the program's continued implementation.
Future Plans
Local officials said the city government is considering making subsidized rice available in barangays in the future to make it more accessible to residents.
