MANILA, Philippines– The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Thursday that the “Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na” program, which offers rice at PHP20 per kilogram, is now available in more than 87 locations across the Philippines—surpassing the initial target of 55 sites.
Launched initially at Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) stores in three public markets in Bacolod City, the program aims to provide affordable rice to Filipino consumers amid rising market prices.
Agriculture Assistant Secretary Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra confirmed the expansion, highlighting the government’s commitment to food security and support for the local agricultural sector.
The DA continues to work with local markets and governments to ensure smooth distribution, monitor availability, and maintain rice quality at participating KNP outlets.
Consumers are encouraged to visit designated KNP sites to avail themselves of the program, which is expected to help ease the cost of living for many Filipinos.
The Department of Agriculture plans to further assess the program’s impact and explore opportunities to expand the initiative.
For updates, the public may follow announcements from the DA and local authorities.
