By Aurea Marie Belgera

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato (PIA) — Families in South Cotabato are now benefiting from more affordable rice, as the Department of Agriculture (DA) has introduced a ₱20-per-kilogram rice sale under the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program at the South Cotabato T’nalak Festival.

The P20 rice initiative aims to improve food security by making quality rice more accessible to vulnerable populations in rural areas.

This effort aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s ongoing initiatives to ensure that all citizens have access to sufficient food.

The Kadiwa ng Pangulo directly connects local producers with consumers. This linkage ensures that essential commodities are available at lower prices, which helps reduce household food expenses.

The program now extends the government’s food security efforts to qualified beneficiaries as the province celebrates its 27th T’nalak Festival and 60th Foundation Anniversary.

Eligible beneficiaries include registered farmers and fisherfolk who are listed in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) or those certified by their Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO).

Also included are tricycle drivers holding valid TODA IDs, minimum wage earners with company certification, personnel from the Department of Education, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, and beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

Qualified buyers can purchase up to 10 kilograms of rice each day on a first-come, first-served basis.

To ensure proper distribution, buyers must obtain a queue number from representatives of the DA and complete identity verification prior to making payment and receiving rice.

For Emily Buen, a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and a homemaker, the initiative offers essential support for her family.

“Dako nga bulig ang P20 pesos nga kilo sang bugas, especially sa amon nga pamilya. Sa tunga sang nagataas na presyo, ini isa ka maayo nga pribilehiyo sa amon nga makatipid,” she said.

(The P20-per-kilogram rice is an enormous help for our family. Amid rising prices, the discount is a valuable opportunity for us to save on our daily expenses.)

The Kadiwa outlet located on Alunan Avenue in Koronadal City will continue to serve residents until July 18, offering subsidized rice during a time when household expenses are on the rise.

Festival organizers stated that the DA’s rollout of subsidized rice at the T’nalak event emphasizes the government’s dedication to ensuring that South Cotabato’s annual celebration not only highlights culture and heritage but also provides concrete support to residents, especially low-income families and priority groups. (AMBB, PIA Region 12)

Published Date: July 14, 2026