P15 Billion Rice Program Launched as Bongbong Marcos Pushes Hunger-Free Philippines
BONGBONG MARCOS – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has shared an ambitious vision of eliminating hunger in the Philippines by the end of his term in 2028.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has expressed his long-term aspiration that no Filipino will suffer from hunger by the time his term ends in 2028. “Sana po ay kahit papaano matupad ang aking pangarap, walana pong gutom na Pilipino,” said Marcos Jr., at the launch of the “Biyayang Bigas” program in Manila.
The President made the statement during the official launch of the “Biyayang Bigas” program held in Manila, which aims to provide direct rice assistance to qualified beneficiaries as part of the government’s continuing efforts to address food security concerns in the country.
According to Marcos Jr., the initiative is part of a broader strategy to respond to the rising cost of basic goods and to ensure that Filipino families have consistent access to affordable staple food. He emphasized that food security remains a top priority of his administration, especially in the face of inflationary pressures affecting households nationwide.
To support the implementation of the program, the government has allocated P15 billion through the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF). This funding will be distributed across various local government units to ensure the efficient delivery of assistance to intended beneficiaries.
In the City of Manila alone, around 80,000 residents are expected to benefit from the program. Each qualified household will receive six distributions of 10 kilograms of rice within one year, providing continued support to ease their daily food expenses.
The launch event was attended by Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, who witnessed the rollout of the program alongside national government officials. Local leaders expressed support for the initiative, highlighting its potential impact on low-income families.
The administration also reiterated its commitment to strengthening agricultural systems and improving the distribution of rice nationwide. Officials said the program is designed not only as immediate relief but also as part of long-term efforts to stabilize food supply and prices.
Government agencies have been tasked to closely monitor the implementation of the program to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper distribution of resources. The goal is to maximize the program’s reach and effectiveness, particularly in urban communities vulnerable to rising living costs.
Through the “Biyayang Bigas” program, the Marcos administration hopes to take a significant step toward reducing hunger incidence in the country while promoting food security as a foundation for national development.
