DOLE rolls out P20-per-kilo rice program for minimum wage earners

Through the nationwide rollout of a government subsidy program, low-income workers can now buy rice for just P20 per kilo. The initiative is designed to help reduce their daily living expenses.

DOLE Officer-in-Charge Benjo Santos shared in a news release that 16,126 employees across 100 establishments nationwide have taken part in the program.

During the launch held last Friday at the Manila Harbor Center in Tondo, Manila, he said that approximately 800 rank-and-file port workers each received five kilos of rice. The event was led by Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

"This isn't just about rice – it is about dignity. It is about proving that the government can deliver for the Filipinos who need it most," Laurel said. "We are fulfilling President Marcos' promise of affordable food – subsidized for now, but ideally self-sustaining in the future through agricultural modernization," he added.

Agriculture Secretary Tiu Laurel said the Department of Agriculture has been instructed to sustain and expand the program until the end of President Marcos' term in 2028. He also noted that lower-middle-income households may be included starting next year.