The Department of Agriculture (DA) aims to lower the price of rice even further under the ongoing “Rice-for-All” program this month, as part of its efforts to make staple food more affordable for Filipinos.
Currently, the DA is selling well-milled rice at P40 per kilogram through select Kadiwa outlets in Metro Manila, including stations along the MRT-3 (Ayala Avenue and North Avenue) and LRT-2 (Cubao and Recto). However, DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa revealed the agency’s plan to reduce the price further, aiming for a price range between P38 and P39 per kilogram.
The price cuts are already visible in Metro Manila’s public markets, where rice prices have started to fall due to increased competition sparked by the “Rice-for-All” initiative. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the program has had a positive effect, as consumers are benefiting from lower prices due to the competition it’s fostering.
In addition to the well-milled rice price reduction, the DA plans to introduce two new rice programs: “Sulit Rice” and “Nutri Rice.” These will be available this month and are expected to be priced between P35 and P38 per kilogram. These initiatives are part of the government’s broader strategy to improve access to affordable, nutritious food.
