P20/kilo rice soon in Mindanao

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

In a Palace briefing, Laurel said Phase Two is scheduled to launch in July and will prioritize areas based on poverty incidence data.

Target provinces include Zamboanga del Norte — where 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 coverage to Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte, Catanduanes, Agusan del Sur, Sarangani, and Dinagat Islands.

The first phase has already begun in several provinces across the Negros Island Region, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Eastern Visayas. Laurel said Mindoro was later included in Phase One following clamor from residents, who pointed out that rice was sourced from the province but it was not initially part of the rollout.

‘No color’

Following the 2025 midterm elections, Laurel said he has coordinated with newly elected local officials in Phase One areas to ensure continued implementation.

He emphasized the program's neutrality. “Ang kailangang bigyan ay bigyan — walang kulay ito (Those who need help should be helped — this has no political color),” he said.