Gov't eyeing expansion of P20/kilo rice program

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Title Rice to the People Philippine Government Eyes Expansion of P20/Kilo Program

The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) is exploring the possibility of expanding its popular rice program, which offers a kilogram of rice for just P20, to reach more Filipinos outside vulnerable sectors. This move could benefit an additional 15 million households or 60 million people – nearly half of the country's population.

Currently, the Benteng Bigas Meron Na! (BBM Na!) program is only available to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, single parents, and beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. However, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to expand the initiative, the DA is reviewing the feasibility of opening it up to low- and lower-middle-income families.

Launched in May this year, the P20/kilo rice program aims to sell off National Food Authority's (NFA) aging rice stocks by 2022. Despite a temporary halt due to the midterm elections, the program will continue until 2028, with funding allocated in yearly government budgets.

The proposed expansion is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it could alleviate the burden on vulnerable sectors, which have been struggling with the high cost of rice. The current retail price of rice stands at P43-50 per kilo, making it challenging for many Filipinos to afford a staple food.

Secondly, expanding the program could stabilize farmgate prices and support local farmers. The DA is considering imposing a suggested floor buying price for palay (unmilled rice) amid reports that traders are offering farmers very low prices. Fair prices would encourage farmers to expand their planting of palay, having a positive impact on the agricultural sector.

In conclusion, the expansion of the P20/kilo rice program has significant implications for both vulnerable sectors and local farmers. By making affordable rice available to more Filipinos, the government can ease the burden on low-income households while supporting the agricultural sector.

I made minor changes to improve tone, grammar, and readability

Added a title that is concise and informative
Changed The Philippine government to The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) for consistency
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Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

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