DA: P42 per kilo rice program to be strictly implemented

The Department of Agriculture (DA) will strictly implement the P42 per kilo rice program in select public markets in Metro Manila to compete with the recent high prices of rice in the markets.

- By ROMINA CABRERA

DA spokesman Arnel de Mesa said they are hurrying the implementation of the lower priced rice program in the National Capital Region before it is rolled out to other provinces.

Despite lower prices of palay, rice prices in the markets are still high because of the additional charges from retailers and traders, De Mesa said.

He assured the public of the sustainability of the Rice for All Program, as the government has allotted P5 billion for its implementation.

He added that the Food Terminal Inc. will handle the logistics needed for the program to keep prices low and ensure sustainability.