P20/kilo rice sold soon in Mindanao

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said Monday P20 per kilo rice will soon be available in Mindanao markets.

In a Palace briefing, Laurel said phase two of the rice distribution program is scheduled to launch in July and will prioritize areas based on poverty incidence data.

Target provinces include Zamboanga del Norte — where the poverty incidence stands at 37.7 percent — along with Basilan, Cotabato City, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Davao Oriental, Sorsogon and Maguindanao del Norte.

Phase three will follow in September and expand the coverage to Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte, Catanduanes, Agusan del Sur, Sarangani and Dinagat Island.

The first phase has begun in several provinces across Negros Island, Western Visayas, Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas.

Laurel said Mindoro was included in phase one following the clamor of its residents who pointed out that the rice was sourced from the province but it was not initially part of the rollout.

Following the 2025 midterm elections, Laurel said he has coordinated with the newly elected local officials in phase one areas to ensure the program’s continued implementation.

He emphasized the program’s impartiality. “Those who need help should be helped — this has no political color,” he said.