Gov't Eyes Expanded P40/Kilo Rice Program

Affordable rice will soon be available in more public markets nationwide as the government eyes the expansion of its P40 per kilo program, Malacañang said yesterday.

- Helen Flores, Jose Rodel Clapano

"The Kadiwa ng Pangulo Rice-for-All program resumed Friday, Dec. 27, on its seventh day, targeting more public markets in time for the celebration of New Year," the Presidential Communications Office said.

Rice retailers have started lowering prices following the successful implementation of the program led by the Department of Agriculture (DA), the PCO noted.

The staple, being sold at Kadiwa stores at P40 per kilo in some areas in Metro Manila, is cheaper by P3 to P5 compared to those being sold by market retailers.

The public may purchase up to 25 kilos of the affordable rice.

"Market retailers are currently reducing their prices to keep up with the lower price offered by rolling stores," the PCO said, quoting a DA report.

So far, EDSA Balintawak Market distributed 110 sacks of rice; New Marulas Public Market in Barangay Marulas, Valenzuela City, five sacks and Malabon Central Market, 32 sacks.