House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left), President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (Speaker’s office)

President Marcos' P29 Rice Program is right up House Speaker Martin Romualdez's alley. 

Known as "Mr. Rice" Romualdez sees the value of the Marcos administration initiative, and says it demonstrates the President’s dedication to tackling inflation and enhancing food security for Filipinos. 

“Offering rice at P29 per kilo to our most vulnerable citizens is a vital step in reducing hunger and improving the quality of life for millions of Filipinos," Romualdez said. 

The program, which launched its large-scale trial on Friday, will operate in 10 locations across Metro Manila and Bulacan. It offers rice at P29 per kilogram to vulnerable groups, including members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and solo parents. 

"This initiative ensures that affordable rice reaches those who need it most," pointed out Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives. 

He said the government will be gathering vital data during the trial to ensure a smooth nationwide rollout, with the ultimate goal of achieving rice self-sufficiency by 2028 or the end of President Marcos' term. 

Beneficiaries can purchase the subsidized rice every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with a limit of 10 kilos per household each month. Each trial site is expected to support around 60,000 households monthly. 

“Government agencies are uniting to prevent misuse and guarantee that the program effectively reaches its intended recipients. Through collaboration with local government units and barangays, the government will ensure fair and efficient distribution,” explained the Speaker. 

He noted the plans to expand the program nationwide. 

“In the coming months, the government aims to double the number of distribution sites and extend this initiative to the Visayas and Mindanao, ultimately reaching 6.9 million families across the country," he said. 

Romualdez, who earned the moniker Mr. Rice for his nationwide rice distribution initiative, also highlighted the “rice-for-all” program, which aims to provide rice at a lower price to the general public. 

“This initiative is a key component of the government’s comprehensive strategy to combat inflation and ensure food security for all Filipinos," he noted. 

"These programs reflect President Marcos' strategic vision and dedication to the well-being of our people. Together, we are making significant strides towards a future where every Filipino has access to affordable, nutritious food," he added.