Marcos: P20/kilo rice here to stay

The P20-per-kilo rice is "here to stay," President Marcos declared yesterday, but beneficiaries would be limited to vulnerable groups for now.

- By HELEN FLORES

In his vlog posted on YouTube, the President said the heavily subsidized rice is being sold not just in Kadiwa outlets but also in public markets.

"With the cooperation of many national government agencies, and now in partnership with the local government, P20 rice is here to stay. It is achievable, it is sustainable. So watch out for it in your nearest public market," Marcos said.

"We have more and more locations and it's not just a pop-up stall that disappears after it starts. It will continue," he said.

Currently, the government is selling the cheap rice to vulnerable sectors, including indigent, senior citizens, solo parents and persons with disabilities.

"For now, as we said, (we'll make it available to) vulnerable sectors first, those who need it most," the Chief Executive said.

The national government and partner local government units (LGUS) subsidize the rice program.