President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the lives of Filipinos through state subsidies, job creation, and ensuring access to affordable food.
Speaking during a visit to Iloilo on Thursday, Mr. Marcos said the administration remains focused on assisting those in need.
“It is very important for our government to provide help to those who need it. That is why we are doing this,” he said in Filipino.
“Know that your government is always here, listening to your concerns, and will do everything it can to help,” he added.
The President highlighted ongoing efforts, including job fairs, food programs and financial assistance for low-income families.
He was in Iloilo to oversee a Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) payout and a job fair offering around 2,000 employment opportunities.
The President also announced that Kadiwa outlets are now selling rice at P29 per kilo, with more than 1,100 metric tons already distributed to over 220,000 households.
To further address rising food costs, the government has lowered the maximum suggested retail price of rice from P55 to P49 per kilo and is implementing the Rice for All program.
Additionally, the rice import tariff has been reduced from 30% to 15% to stabilize supply and prices.
With the government’s food security emergency declaration, Iloilo City can now purchase rice from the National Food Authority at PHP 35 per kilo.
The President assured the public that his administration would continue working on initiatives to ease the burden on Filipino families.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Marcos vows continued support to boost food, job programs.”