Davao City Initiates P20 'Benteng Bigas' Rice Project in Two Barangays
The P20 "Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!" Rice Project has officially commenced in Davao City, with ceremonial rice selling launching in Barangay Matina Crossing and Barangay Tungkalan in the Toril District. This initiative marks a significant step in the Department of Agriculture's (DA) efforts to provide affordable rice to vulnerable populations across the Philippines.
Program Launch and Beneficiary Impact
On February 20, 2026, the program was inaugurated in Barangay Matina Crossing 74-A, distributing 600 sacks of rice, followed by Barangay Tungkalan with 300 sacks. Approximately 4,000 beneficiaries from these two barangays have already benefited from the rollout, which targets sectors such as senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, low-income families, transport workers, farmers, and fisherfolk.
DA Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra emphasized that Barangay Matina Crossing 74-A is the first barangay in 2026 to receive this support under the expanded project. She stated, "Before, we used to go to the provinces where we launched our programs. Now, because we have an expansion project, we are going through the barangays one by one." The department aims to broaden the program's reach to ensure more community members can access affordable rice.
Testimonials from Beneficiaries
Beneficiaries have expressed gratitude for the program's impact on their daily lives. Belinda Beno, a minimum wage earner, highlighted the financial relief, noting that with rice prices averaging P55 per kilo, the P20 rice allows her to save significantly. "I can save a lot of money and I can buy a viand," she said.
Cherry Lou Saraon, a mother of three and a 4Ps beneficiary, shared that the program enables her to purchase 10 kilos of rice at an affordable price, easing the challenges of providing for her family.
Background and Future Goals
The Benteng Bigas, Meron Na program is a flagship food security initiative under President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s administration. It focuses on making rice accessible to vulnerable groups while supporting local farmers through the National Food Authority (NFA), which procures rice from domestic producers.
Originally launched on June 13, 2025, with pilot events, the program's expansion into barangays like those in Davao City underscores its growing reach. The DA plans to continue scaling the initiative to cover more sectors and communities, reinforcing its commitment to food affordability and security nationwide.
