By TED CORDERO, GMA Integrated News

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is expanding the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na” initiative in Metro Manila in a bid to make affordable rice more accessible to vulnerable sectors.

In a statement issued Thursday, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said: “The DA envisions establishing at least five P20 ‘Benteng Bigas’ outlets in every LGU (local government units) in Metro Manila.”

“Our goal is simple: bring affordable rice closer to our constituents and ensure vulnerable sectors are directly served. This expansion underscores our firm commitment to food security and to easing the financial burden on Filipino families,” said Tiu Laurel.

For his part, DA-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (DA-AMAS) Director Junibert de Sagun said the agency is targeting full-scale expansion of the program by end-March 2026 “to align with peak harvest flows and maximize supply availability.”

“Close coordination with LGUs and DA-FTI (Food Terminal Inc.) is critical to ensure efficient distribution and sustained supply of P20 rice,” said de Sagun.

The expanded Metro Manila rollout will prioritize senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, minimum wage earners, members of tricycle operators and drivers associations, farmers, fisherfolk, and other qualified groups.

On Wednesday, the DA convened a Technical Working Group meeting together with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Metro Manila local government units to fast-track and harmonize implementation, during which the MMDA pledged logistical and monitoring support. 

“This is a shared responsibility,” said MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes.

“Affordable rice must reach as many Metro Manila families as possible,” added Artes. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News

Published Date: February 12, 2026