The Department of Agriculture (DA) is set to enforce its P42 per kilo rice program in select public markets across Metro Manila as part of efforts to address the rising cost of rice. The initiative will later expand to other provinces, DA spokesperson Arnel de Mesa said in a One News PH report.
De Mesa highlighted that while palay prices have dropped, market rates remain high due to added charges from traders and retailers. He assured the public of the program’s sustainability, backed by a P5 billion government allocation. Logistics will be managed by the Food Terminal Inc. to maintain affordability and ensure a steady supply.
In parallel, the House of Representatives’ “Murang Pagkain” supercommittee, chaired by House ways and means head Joey Salceda, aims to lower rice prices further. Salceda stated the goal is to approach President Marcos’ target of P20 per kilo, with an initial target of P30 per kilo.
Salceda also pointed out irregularities in the rice trade, citing significant gaps between reduced import costs and retail prices. The supercommittee is investigating price manipulation over the past decade and plans to provide recommendations to President Marcos by Christmas.
The initiative comes as rice expenses continue to strain poor households, where food accounts for over half of total spending.
