MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday warned individuals attempting to manipulate palay prices and deceive farmers that the government will take legal action against such practices, as he unveiled plans to expand the P20 per kilo rice program nationwide during his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Speaking before lawmakers and guests at the Batasang Pambansa, Marcos said the administration allocated ₱113 billion to the Department of Agriculture (DA) to strengthen its programs aimed at stabilizing rice prices and ensuring fair compensation for farmers.
The nationwide rollout of the rice subsidy program will be carried out through hundreds of KADIWA stores and centers operated in partnership with local governments. Marcos said these outlets will distribute rice at the target price of ₱20 per kilo, providing consumers with affordable staple food and protecting farmers from exploitation.
“This initiative will help shield our farmers from price manipulation while ensuring that all Filipinos have access to affordable rice,” Marcos said.
The president emphasized that the DA will play a central role in overseeing the KADIWA initiative, which forms part of a broader strategy to improve food security and strengthen the agricultural sector.
The government’s ₱113 billion budget allocation will fund programs focused on boosting agricultural productivity, supporting rural development, and enhancing farmer livelihoods.
The administration will monitor the rollout closely to prevent any attempts to manipulate market prices.
