Amid the skyrocketing rice prices that necessitated the government's imposition of a price cap, the Department of Trade and Industry on Friday rolled out its "Rice on Wheels Program for Retailers."

The DTI said that through the caravan, the DTI targets supplying retailers in the public markets with affordable rice stocks.

"The DTI will work closely with different government agencies and private stakeholders to ensure that Filipino families will be able to access affordable rice during the implementation of Executive Order 39. We will continue to find ways and means to work with the private sector to stabilize the supply and price of rice in the market," said Trade Secretary Fred Pascual in a statement.

Before the roll-out in different public markets on 11 September, the DTI spearheaded a simultaneous dry-run yesterday in public markets in the cities of Makati, Parañaque and Manila.

Through the Rice on Wheels for Retailers program, Bulacan rice millers and traders want to show their support for Executive Order 39, the DTI said.

During the roll-out in Barangay Gulod, Novaliches, Quezon City, the Bulacan Rice Millers and Traders group brought a supply of 12,500 kilos to be sold.

"The DTI assures the public of its relentless pursuit to provide affordable rice as we nurture a stronger, more accessible market for all. Through a whole-of-government approach, the DTI will continuously collaborate with different government agencies and private stakeholders to ensure the availability of affordable rice supplies for all," Pascual added.