The Department of Agriculture (DA) plans to further reduce rice prices this January as part of its “Rice-for-All” initiative, according a GMA News report citing DA Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Arnel de Mesa.
Currently, well-milled rice is sold at P40 per kilo in various Kadiwa outlets across Metro Manila, including MRT-3 (Ayala Avenue and North Avenue) and LRT-2 (Cubao and Recto) stations. The agency aims to lower the price to P38–P39 per kilo soon.
De Mesa highlighted the program’s progress during a PTV interview, noting that rice prices have gradually dropped from P45 to P40 per kilo in 2024. The new prices are expected to take effect this month.
In addition to reducing prices under the “Rice-for-All” program, the DA is set to launch two new initiatives: “Sulit Rice” and “Nutri Rice.” These programs aim to provide affordable and nutritious options for consumers in Metro Manila.
Under the “Sulit Rice” initiative, the DA will offer 100% broken rice at P35–P36 per kilo. Meanwhile, the “Nutri Rice” program will sell healthier brown rice varieties priced at P37–P38 per kilo.
Despite potential farming challenges posed by La Niña in early 2025, De Mesa assured the public that the government remains committed to making rice more affordable for Filipino households.
