Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. credited the support and cooperation of the industry and stakeholders for the success of the KADIWA ng Pangulo Rice-for-All initiative, which has been providing affordable rice to consumers.
Tiu Laurel thanked rice millers, importers and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for supporting the government’s efforts to provide affordable rice to consumers.
In a meeting with rice importers to discuss strategies for stabilizing rice prices, Tiu Laurel cited their active participation in the KADIWA ng Pangulo Rice-for-All initiative.
“We remain hopeful that more like-minded businesses will join President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration in addressing food inflation and ensuring affordability for Filipino consumers,” he said.
The rolling stores have been offering well-milled rice at P40 and P45 per kilogrram in public markets across Metro Manila since Dec. 21, 2024.
Some 26 KADIWA rolling stores and kiosks serve consumers in various markets and select MRT and LRT stations, with plans to expand to all major public markets in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Beyond the rolling stores, 40 KADIWA Centers in NCR and Bulacan provide basic necessities, prime commodities, and rice for vulnerable sectors, including P29 per kilo rice.
“While the DA is working closely with millers and importers to bring more affordable rice options, we remain dedicated to helping Filipino rice farmers increase their productivity and maintain their profitability,” Tiu Laurel said.
He also urged importers to diversify by including rice with 25-percent broken grains in their shipments to further lower rice prices.
Such varieties are more affordable than the commonly imported rice with only 5-percent broken grains, he said.
