The government’s flagship food-security initiative reached a major milestone as the Department of Agriculture (DA) completed the nationwide rollout of its Benteng Bigas, Meron na! program, officially bringing P20-per-kilo rice to all 82 provinces.
The final launch in Maguindanao del Norte marked the substantial completion of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s pledge to make affordable, nutritious rice accessible to every Filipino family.
For communities in remote and conflict-affected areas, the arrival of P20 rice represents a significant boost to household affordability and food stability.
“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,” said Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra.
The rollout in Barira, Buldon, Matanog, Sultan Kudarat, and Sultan Mastura expands access in geographically challenged areas, strengthening cooperation between the national government and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Guevarra credited the initiative’s success to interagency collaboration, saying the P20 rice project would not have been possible without unified actions and dedication across government.
Across the country, the DA has established 429 P20 rice sites, creating a resilient distribution network for affordable staples. By next year, the program aims to reach 15 million households, deepening market penetration and farmer support.
With nationwide coverage now complete, the P20 rice initiative stands as one of the administration’s most ambitious food-security programs.
The next phase will focus on sustaining supply, boosting production, and ensuring continued access for every Filipino family.
