(Ellson Quismorio/ MANILA BULLETIN)

Members of the "Young Guns" bloc in the House of Representatives only have good things to say about the Marcos administration's P29 Rice Program. 

Assistant Majority Leaders Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, La Union 1st district Rep. Francisco Paolo Ortega V, Zambales 1st district Rep. Jay Khonghun, and Nueva Ecija 1st district Rep. Mikaela Angela Suansing all agree that the program is a godsend to families in need. 

“With rising global food prices, many families are struggling to make ends meet. The P29 Rice Program provides a much-needed relief by making a staple food more affordable. It is an essential measure to help ensure that no Filipino goes hungry, particularly those who are most in need,” Adiong said. 

Ortega V noted the program’s broader impact on the economy and society. “Affordable rice is crucial for maintaining stability and improving the quality of life for millions. By ensuring that rice remains accessible at a low cost, we are not only helping families manage their daily expenses but also contributing to overall economic stability,” he said. 

Khonghun said the P29 Rice Program not only helps families but also supports local farmers, ensuring they have a stable market for their produce. 

“This program guarantees that the rice they grow will have a consistent and reliable market, allowing them to sustain their livelihoods and invest in better farming practices. By supporting our farmers, we are strengthening the entire agricultural supply chain and ensuring a more resilient food system for the future,” he said. 

Suansing highlighted the proposed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), which had already been approved on third and final reading by the House of Representatives, as part of the government’s effort to bring down the price of rice. 

“These amendments are crucial in our fight to make rice more affordable for all Filipinos. By refining the RTL, we are directly addressing the root causes of high rice prices and ensuring that the benefits of lower tariffs are felt by our consumers,” Suansing, one of the principal authors of the RTL amendments bill, said. 

Another Young Gun, Assistant Minority Leader 1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez, said program addresses immediate food needs and plays a crucial role in stabilizing the economy. 

“By making rice affordable, we are helping to control inflation, which benefits everyone, especially low-income families who spend a larger portion of their income on food. This program ensures that nutritious food is within reach for all, promoting better health and well-being across the nation," he said. 

Deputy Majority Leader and Isabela 6th district Rep. Faustino “Inno” Dy V said P29 Rice Program is a key strategy in reducing the volatility of rice prices and providing a reliable supply to the citizenry. 

ALSO READ:

https://mb.com.ph/2024/7/5/p29-rice-program-makes-sense-for-mr-rice-romualdez

“When rice prices are stable and affordable, it creates a ripple effect that benefits the entire economy. Families can plan their budgets more effectively, and farmers have a secure market for their crops,” Dy pointed out. 

For his part, Manila 3rd district Rep. Joel Chua expressed optimism about the potential impact of the administration’s P29 Rice Program. 

“This initiative is a testament to what we can achieve with collaborative efforts. It’s an important step toward ensuring that every Filipino family has access to affordable and nutritious food,” Chua said. 

Earlier, House Speaker Martin Romualdez praised the P29 Rice Program as a testament to President Marcos' commitment to tackling inflation and enhancing food security. 

“Offering rice at ₱29 per kilo to our most vulnerable citizens is a vital step in reducing hunger and improving the quality of life for millions of Filipinos,” the Speaker said.