Photo credit: PCO

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently led the launch of the P20 per kilo rice initiative at the Zapote Public Market, marking the first time the affordable rice was made available outside the Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets.

During his visit, the President personally checked on the implementation of the program, ensuring that the distribution of low-cost rice is running smoothly and reaching the right beneficiaries. He emphasized that the initiative is meant to directly support vulnerable sectors, including beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and solo parents.

The expansion of the P20/kilo rice outside the traditional Kadiwa channels represents a significant step in the government's effort to bring down the cost of basic goods and provide targeted assistance to those who need it most. President Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making essential commodities more accessible, especially amid rising living costs.

This move is part of a broader push to improve food security and strengthen public market systems across the country. The President also called on local government units and concerned agencies to work together to sustain the program and ensure its long-term impact on the lives of ordinary Filipinos.