In a major step toward food security and economic relief, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the launch of the P20 Rice Project under the KADIWA ng Pangulo program. Beginning May 2, 2025, indigents, senior citizens, solo parents, and persons with disabilities will be able to purchase high-quality rice at just Php 20.00 per kilogram through KADIWA centers across the country.
Making Affordable Rice Accessible
Through this initiative, eligible beneficiaries can buy up to 30 kilos of rice per month at the highly subsidized rate. The rice supply will be procured by Food Terminal Inc. from the National Food Authority (NFA), ensuring quality and sufficient volume for the program.
For the pilot run, participating local government units (LGUs) sharing the subsidy will have the option to extend the affordable rice program to all households in their community, regardless of economic status.
Secretary Tiu Laurel noted that the P20 Rice Project complements the "Bente Bigas Mo" program, previously piloted in select LGUs, where rice was sold at P33 per kilo due to a declared national food security emergency. Some participating areas include San Juan City (Metro Manila), San Jose del Monte (Bulacan), Camarines Sur, and Mati City (Davao Oriental).
Conditions Now Right for Launch
The program, which had been under study since June 2024, was initially delayed due to high global grain prices and low NFA inventory. However, global rice prices have since stabilized—dropping from over USD 700 per metric ton to around USD 300—and the NFA has achieved its highest buffer stock in five years, equivalent to ten days of national demand.
NFA Administrator Larry Lacson reported that of the 10.1 million sacks of palay currently stored, 2.9 million sacks were purchased in 2025 alone. The DA has instructed its teams to continue aggressively purchasing palay at P18 to P24 per kilo to further support Filipino farmers.
Dual Benefit: Families and Farmers
Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized that the P20 Rice Project serves a dual purpose:
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Easing the financial burden for millions of Filipino families
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Boosting farmers' incomes through direct government procurement at fair prices.
The DA envisions refining the program over time to lessen the need for government subsidies, allowing more funds to be redirected to broader agricultural and economic development initiatives.
Initially set to run until December 2025, the program has now been expanded, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive, to sustain its reach and impact until the end of his term in 2028.
A Bright Future for Rice Security
The launch of the P20 Rice Project marks a significant milestone in the government’s push for affordable and sustainable food security. With the groundwork laid for strong implementation, millions of Filipinos can look forward to more affordable rice while supporting the livelihoods of our hardworking farmers.
Stay tuned for updates on where you can access P20 rice in your community through your local KADIWA center!
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