TACLOBAN CITY– Residents of two towns in Leyte can now buy rice for as low as P20 per kilo, following the launch of new KADIWA outlets in Alangalang and San Miguel.
The rollout, held on December 5, 2025, forms part of the continued implementation of the Farmers’ Assistance for Recovery and Modernization (FARM) Program of Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez, which aims to stabilize rice prices, uplift farmers’ income, and strengthen local food supply chains.
The availability of P20 rice—considered one of the most sought-after food subsidies in the province—comes at a time when many families continue to grapple with high market prices of basic commodities.
Under the FARM Program, farmer-beneficiaries receive assistance in production and marketing, while their palay harvests are purchased at competitive rates and milled for distribution through KADIWA outlets. This system ensures a win-win cycle: consumers get affordable rice, and farmers are guaranteed fair returns.
In Alangalang, the KADIWA opening was led by Municipal Agriculturist Cesar Anade, who emphasized how the program addresses both food affordability and agricultural sustainability.
Mayor Lovell Ann Yu-Castro highlighted the importance of local government support in maximizing the benefits of national and congressional initiatives.
Atty. Camille Villaflor, speaking on behalf of Rep. Romualdez, reaffirmed the congressman’s commitment to ensuring that Leyteños have stable access to affordable rice.
In San Miguel, Mayor Norman Sabdao noted that the FARM Program’s model of cooperation among national, provincial, and local stakeholders is key to making nutritious and affordable rice reach households.
Atty. Villaflor reiterated the program’s impact on both consumers and farmers, while Ray Lobrigo, municipal coordinator of the Office of Rep. Romualdez, detailed the province-wide expansion of KADIWA outlets as demand continues to grow.
The simultaneous launches in the two municipalities mark the completion of the FARM Program’s first cycle, which mobilized farmers to contribute their harvests in exchange for assured market access and government-backed support.
Preparations are now underway for the second cycle, expected to involve more farmer groups, generate larger volumes of local rice, and further lower market dependence on imported grains.
By expanding KADIWA outlets and strengthening the FARM Program, Leyte’s local governments and the office of Rep. Romualdez aim to build a more resilient agricultural sector—one that guarantees affordable food for families while ensuring farmers can thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
(JOEY A. GABIETA, LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
