The provincial local government unit (PLGU)–initiated rollout of P20-per-kilo rice in the three Samar provinces was successfully conducted in Samar, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar on December 4, 8, and 15, respectively.
The “Benteng Bigas Meron Na” flagship food security initiative is fully aligned with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s (PBBM) efforts to make affordable rice accessible to economically vulnerable households, particularly during the holiday season.
Dubbed “Pamaskong Handog ng Pangulo,” the P20-per-kilo rice program is now accessible in the provinces of Samar and Leyte.
The Benteng Bigas Meron Na project can be availed through various modalities, including PLGU-led initiatives, partner agency initiatives, and the Kadiwa ng Pangulo, with the support of accredited farmers’ cooperatives and associations (FCAs) serving as partner market outlets.
The confirmation came from the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) of the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office 8 (DA-RFO) during the final provincial launch held in Borongan City, Eastern Samar, on Monday, December 15, 2025.
In all rollout activities, 400 bags of locally sourced rice were distributed to 2,000 household beneficiaries, with each household entitled to purchase 10 kilograms of rice at the subsidized price of P20 per kilo.
OIC Regional Executive Director Rodel G. Macapanas of DA-RFO 8 dispatched the AMAD team to closely coordinate with concerned local government unit (LGU) partners and other agencies, including the Food Terminal Incorporated (FTI) and the National Food Authority (NFA), making the rollout possible within just a few days of intensive groundwork and preparation.
Although Director Macapanas and Eastern Samar Governor RV Evardone were not physically present during the provincial rollout in Borongan City due to pressing work-related commitments, the final leg of the launch in Eastern Samar was still a resounding success, marked by the massive turnout of enthusiastic buyers.
The activity was spearheaded by Provincial Agriculturist Virgilio Capon and his Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) staff, DTI Provincial Director Ruthelma G. Samonte, Ms. Bagas of the NFA, municipal agriculturists, PAFC Chair Mr. Regalado Opina, APCO Grace Palconit, Mr. Francis C. Rosaroso, along with other AMAD staff including Ms. Mercy Lasquite and Ms. Cherrymae Cabatingan. The event also featured the newly formed and well-applauded AMADoers Dance Troupe, led by Engr. Dominic Abalo.
