The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday announced that the PHP20-per-kg. rice program of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is now available in all 82 provinces, with the completion of the nationwide rollout of the “Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na” initiative.
The program’s coverage was completed after the launch in Sultan Kudarat, reaching geographically challenged areas with support from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“The fulfillment of the PHP20 rice project would not have been possible without the unified action and collaboration of various government agencies,” Agriculture Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra said in a statement.
The BBM Na rollout in BARMM included Barira, Buldon, Matanog, Sultan Kudarat, and Sultan Mastura.
Guevarra said the program’s expansion underscores its inclusive approach.
“This is about uplifting every Filipino, boosting local production, and ensuring no one, regardless of culture or religion, is left behind in our nation’s progress,” she added.
A total of 429 sites nationwide now offer the PHP20-per-kg. rice and other agricultural products. By 2026, the DA aims to reach 15 million households.
The program currently benefits teachers, non-teaching staff, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, 4Ps beneficiaries, indigenous peoples, low-income earners, farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers, and participants in the DSWD’s Walang Gutom program.
The DA plans to expand its online registry to include delivery riders, drivers, bus conductors, and security personnel. (PNA)