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Advocates Philippines
Marcos Rolls Out Rice Aid Push, Vows Nationwide Expansion Amid Global Tensions
Screengrab from RTVM
With rising global tensions beginning to hit closer to home, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is doubling down on food security—starting with rice on the table for Filipino families.
On Thursday, Marcos personally led the distribution of rice subsidies to Manila residents under the “Biyayang Bigas Para sa Maynila” program, signaling what he says will soon become a nationwide effort.
At the ceremonial rollout held at SM City Manila, beneficiaries received 10 kilos of rice each, part of the government’s immediate response to ease the economic strain linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Food first, says Marcos
In his speech, Marcos made it clear that the program is rooted in a basic priority: ensuring Filipinos don’t go hungry.
“Itong programa na ito ay aming ginawa dahil tinutugunan natin ang pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan—lalo na pagdating sa pagkain,” he said.
He emphasized that food remains at the top of the government’s agenda, especially for families struggling with rising costs.
“Gumawa tayo ng programa para tiyakin na lahat ng ating mga kababayan ay may kinakain,” he added.
From Manila to nationwide rollout
While the initiative is currently focused on Manila, Marcos said plans are already in motion to expand the rice distribution program across the country.
Funded by the Office of the President, the program is designed to provide immediate relief to households affected by economic pressures tied to global developments.
Around ₱286 million has already been released to the Manila city government through financial assistance to local government units, supporting a six-month rollout expected to benefit about 80,000 families.
Targeting the most affected sectors
The program zeroes in on sectors most vulnerable to economic shocks, including workers in transport and service industries—groups often hit first when fuel prices and basic goods rise.
Beyond easing food costs, the initiative also aims to support local agriculture by boosting demand for rice and helping sustain farmers’ livelihoods.
As uncertainty continues to ripple from global events, the administration is banking on programs like this to provide immediate, tangible relief—one sack of rice at a time.
On Thursday, Marcos personally led the distribution of rice subsidies to Manila residents under the “Biyayang Bigas Para sa Maynila” program, signaling what he says will soon become a nationwide effort.
At the ceremonial rollout held at SM City Manila, beneficiaries received 10 kilos of rice each, part of the government’s immediate response to ease the economic strain linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Food first, says Marcos
In his speech, Marcos made it clear that the program is rooted in a basic priority: ensuring Filipinos don’t go hungry.
“Itong programa na ito ay aming ginawa dahil tinutugunan natin ang pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan—lalo na pagdating sa pagkain,” he said.
He emphasized that food remains at the top of the government’s agenda, especially for families struggling with rising costs.
“Gumawa tayo ng programa para tiyakin na lahat ng ating mga kababayan ay may kinakain,” he added.
From Manila to nationwide rollout
While the initiative is currently focused on Manila, Marcos said plans are already in motion to expand the rice distribution program across the country.
Funded by the Office of the President, the program is designed to provide immediate relief to households affected by economic pressures tied to global developments.
Around ₱286 million has already been released to the Manila city government through financial assistance to local government units, supporting a six-month rollout expected to benefit about 80,000 families.
Targeting the most affected sectors
The program zeroes in on sectors most vulnerable to economic shocks, including workers in transport and service industries—groups often hit first when fuel prices and basic goods rise.
Beyond easing food costs, the initiative also aims to support local agriculture by boosting demand for rice and helping sustain farmers’ livelihoods.
As uncertainty continues to ripple from global events, the administration is banking on programs like this to provide immediate, tangible relief—one sack of rice at a time.
Apr 16, 2026
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