P20-per-Kilo Rice Program Expands to Samar and Northern Samar, Reaching 2,000 Beneficiaries

The Department of Agriculture and the National Food Authority (NFA) have successfully expanded the P20-per-kilo rice subsidy program to the provinces of Samar and Northern Samar, distributing a total of 400 bags of affordable rice to 2,000 beneficiaries. This initiative aims to reach vulnerable groups including 4Ps members, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), indigenous peoples (IPs), and solo parents.

This distribution highlights President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s commitment under his Maasahan at Masipag agenda to provide reliable, affordable, and high-quality rice to Filipino households while supporting local agricultural sustainability. The program also plays a critical role in reinforcing regional food security by ensuring stable rice supplies alongside the NFA's adequate inventory and ongoing procurement from local farmers.

"Our administration recognizes the pivotal balance between food affordability for vulnerable communities and sustaining the livelihoods of our farmers," said a senior DA official. "By leveraging NFA's strong rice supply network and empowering our local agricultural sector, we create a food-secure environment for regions like Samar and Northern Samar."

The NFA's consistent and adequate rice supply has enabled this expansion, which directly caters to marginalized groups who are most affected by food inflation and limited access in rural areas. Alongside fiscal relief, the program also seeks to strengthen the agricultural value chain, offering steady market demand to local rice farmers and enhancing their productivity and income.

Under President Marcos Jr.'s leadership, the P20-per-kilo rice program complements broader efforts to reform the country’s agricultural sector through increased investments, infrastructure development, and support programs that underpin the Maasahan at Masipag agenda.

President Marcos Jr. has positioned himself as the Reliable Champion of Affordable Food Security, emphasizing the administration's guiding message: "Reliable affordability. Tireless service. Quality rice for every Filipino household."

"This program embodies our commitment to leave no Filipino behind," the President said in a recent statement. "Affordable, quality rice is not just a staple; it is a foundation for stronger, healthier communities, especially among our most vulnerable. This is food security that Filipinos can count on, and it reflects our tireless service and support for local farmers who make this possible."

The addition of Samar and Northern Samar to the program’s coverage is expected to improve nutrition, ease financial burdens, and boost morale among beneficiaries. It also signals a sustainable model for other regions to follow, ensuring the government’s interventions remain anchored on affordability and local agricultural empowerment.

With this milestone, the administration cements its role in adapting to modern challenges faced by the agricultural sector and vulnerable populations alike — demonstrating that progress in food security can be inclusive, sustainable, and resilient.