July 09, 2024 - The Department of Agriculture (DA) is expanding its P29 rice program ahead of schedule, adding three more KADIWA centers in Metro Manila to reach more vulnerable households.
This large-scale trial program offers P29 per kilo rice to qualified beneficiaries, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and members of the 4Ps program. It began last weekend in 10 KADIWA sites across Metro Manila and San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan.
DA Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra, who oversees KADIWA, announced the addition of centers in Malabon, Navotas, and Nangka, Marikina. She hinted at the possibility of opening three more in neighboring provinces by the end of July.
"This large-scale trial allows us to assess the demand for low-priced rice, supply needs, and logistics for nationwide expansion, especially in areas with high concentrations of vulnerable households," Guevarra said. "President Marcos Jr. is committed to making this program benefit as many Filipinos as possible for the long term."
In addition to the P29 rice program, select KADIWA centers will also offer "Rice-for-All," selling well-milled rice to the general public at lower prices than prevailing market rates.
This initiative builds on Secretary Tiu Laurel's call for Metro Manila local governments to identify suitable KADIWA sites, aiming to increase program accessibility and provide Filipinos with affordable food options.
KADIWA centers typically function as rent-free marketplaces for farmers' cooperatives and associations to directly sell their produce, including vegetables, fish, eggs, meat, and discounted processed goods.