Cebu: The Cebu provincial government now has around 11,380 50-kilo bags of rice in preparation for the resumption of the "Bente Bigas Meron Na" program on May 13. The program aims to provide affordable rice to residents at a rate of P20 per kilo.
According to Philippines News Agency, Provincial Agriculture Office chief Dr. Roldan Saragena mentioned that this stock is an initial allocation as they await further orders from various local government units within the province. The program, originally launched on May 1, was temporarily paused following the Commission on Elections' recommendation to avoid any political interpretations.
Once resumed, beneficiaries can purchase the discounted rice at Kadiwa Centers, which offer a platform for farmers to sell directly to consumers at reduced prices. For residents in areas lacking Kadiwa Centers, the rice will be available at Sugbo Merkadong Barato stores. The program allows indigent beneficiaries to purchase up to 10 kilos of rice weekly, with a monthly limit of 40 kilos.
Saragena noted that data on the number of sacks sold during the Labor Day launch is currently unavailable, as the event was organized by the Department of Agriculture in collaboration with the Cebu provincial government, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, and other agencies. He clarified that their involvement at the time was primarily logistical, focusing on transporting rice from the National Food Authority warehouse to the Capitol.
The sale of rice at the Capitol on May 1 extended until nearly midnight due to a significant increase in registered beneficiaries.