Philippine Food Stamp Program Expands with P20-per-Kilo Rice Initiative

Picture courtesy of Inquirer

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has started integrating the affordable P20-per-kilo rice program into its Food Stamp Program, aiming to alleviate hunger among food-poor Filipinos. Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian made this announcement while highlighting the success of the Food Stamp Program in reducing hunger incidence.

In collaboration with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Gatchalian confirmed that they are working to provide accredited retailers, such as Kadiwa centers and small agricultural cooperatives, with supplies of the affordable rice. This integration means that beneficiaries can use their food credits to purchase more rice, significantly stretching their food budget.

This initiative follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive for government departments to coordinate efforts, ensuring cohesive program implementation. Gatchalian underscored the importance of inter-departmental collaboration in efficiently addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.

The distribution of the P20-per-kilo rice has already commenced. Initially, around 1,000 accredited retailers will offer this rice to beneficiaries. The DSWD has provided the Department of Agriculture with a list of these retailers, ensuring a streamlined distribution process.

This initiative promises to extend the reach of the Food Stamp Program, making nutritious staples more accessible to those in need and reflecting an important step in the government's broader efforts to combat poverty and improve food security in the Philippines.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Inquirer 2025-05-31