Lapu-Lapu City Moves Forward with P20 per Kilo Rice Program
Residents of Lapu-Lapu City could soon purchase rice at a subsidized rate of P20 per kilogram as the City Government advances the implementation of the "Bigasan ng Bayan" program. This initiative is part of the national government's broader food security efforts under the Kadiwa ng Pangulo framework.
Key Meeting with Department of Agriculture Officials
In a recent courtesy visit, Department of Agriculture (DA) Engineering Program Manager Primel John Vergara and Benjie Bala met with Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan to present a proposed memorandum of agreement for the program's rollout in the city. The discussion also covered plans for subsidized rice sales through the Kadiwa ng Pangulo initiative.
Mayor Chan announced that the proposal includes selling freshly milled rice from the National Food Authority (NFA) at P20 per kilo in designated Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets. The Lapu-Lapu City Public Market is being considered as a primary location, with potential expansion to Olango Island to serve island barangays.
Program Funding and Operational Details
The program will be fully funded by the DA, with the City Government providing logistical and operational support. Chan expressed optimism for a launch as early as April, emphasizing the goal of making affordable rice accessible to all residents, including those in remote areas.
Once implemented, qualified beneficiaries will be allowed to purchase up to 10 kilos of rice per transaction, with a maximum monthly allocation of 30 kilos for priority sectors. The program prioritizes vulnerable groups such as:
- Senior citizens
- Solo parents
- Persons with disabilities
- Beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)
Additional beneficiaries include farmers, fisherfolk, transportation drivers, minimum wage earners, and public school staff.
Registration and Transaction Process
First-time buyers must present a valid identification card to register for the program. Upon registration, a QR code will be issued to facilitate faster transactions in the future. Kadiwa outlets are operational daily, ensuring consistent access to subsidized rice and other agricultural products.
Background on the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Initiative
The national government has rolled out the Kadiwa ng Pangulo "Bigasan ng Bayan" program as a nationwide effort to provide affordable rice directly to consumers while supporting local farmers. By eliminating intermediaries, the program allows farmers and small producers to sell their harvests directly to households, with prices ranging from P20 to P29 per kilo depending on the area and supply availability.
This program is part of a broader initiative that includes markets offering a variety of agricultural products such as vegetables, fruits, meat, and seafood. Since its launch, several provinces and cities have participated, setting up kiosks and distribution points to make staples available at subsidized prices.
