By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday pledged to expand the rollout of rice distribution programs, as he oversaw the distribution of rice subsidies to Manila residents under the Biyayang Bigas Para sa Maynila.
As part of government efforts to cushion the impact of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, each beneficiary received 10 kilos of rice during the ceremonial distribution at SM City Manila.
In his speech, Marcos said the rice distribution initiative would be carried out nationwide.
“Itong programa na ito ay aming ginawa dahil talagang tinutugunan natin lalung lalo na ang mga kababayan nating nangangailangan ng iba’t ibang bagay. Nangunguna diyan ang pagkain (We created this program because we are really helping our countrymen, especially those in need of various necessities. Food is at the forefront of that),” he said.
“Gumawa tayo ng programa para tiyakin na lahat ng ating mga kababayan ay may kinakain (We created a program to ensure that all our countrymen have something to eat),” Marcos added.
The program, funded by the Office of the President (OP), aims to provide immediate food relief to Manila households affected by the economic pressures driven by the Middle East conflict.
The OP has released around PHP286 million to the city government of Manila through the Financial Assistance to Local Government Units.
The initiative, which will run for six months, will benefit a total of 80,000 families, reinforcing the Marcos administration’s commitment to helping Filipinos cope with global uncertainties.
The beneficiaries include transport and service industry workers who are most vulnerable to economic challenges.
The move seeks to ease food costs for Manila residents, as well as increase local farmers’ productivity and livelihood. (PNA)
