DA Says Affordable Rice Is Safe
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has confirmed that the rice being sold at P20 per kilo is clean and free from weevils or any pests.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel himself, along with other officials from the department, led the rice tasting to ensure that the National Food Authority (NFA) rice is of good quality.
The move came after some doubts were raised about whether the rice was suitable for consumption, especially after concerns from Vice President Sara Duterte about its quality. Secretary Laurel said he felt hurt by claims that the NFA rice was not fit for the people, which pushed the department to prove otherwise.
During a press conference in Quezon City, the DA explained that the government has set aside P5 billion to help subsidize the cost of selling rice at P20 per kilo. Normally, the rice would sell at around P33 per kilo.
It means the government is taking a loss of P13 for every kilo sold. That cost will be shared between the national government and local government units (LGUs).
The rice will be available starting May 1 in parts of the Visayas region, and on May 2 in selected Kadiwa stores in Metro Manila, if the Commission on Elections approves the exemption for selling during the election period.
Secretary Laurel called on the public to support the program so that it can be successful and more people can benefit. The goal is to help families afford their basic needs, especially rice, which is a daily staple for many Filipinos.
The program shows the government’s effort to bring affordable and quality food to people, especially during difficult times.
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