Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso announced on Friday, March 20, that the city is targeting to start the distribution of 10 kilos of rice to residents by the month of April as a form of aid amid the intensifying conflict in the Middle East that continues to push oil prices to record highs, resulting in the increase of expenses of the general public.

Domagoso made the statement during his "Talk to the People" segment on Facebook, saying Manila has received P286 million from the Office of the President under its 2026 Local Government Support Fund (LGSF).

He explained the budget will be used to fund social relief programs, including Manila's rice aid initiative, for six months.

“Magbibigay tayo ng 10 kilo ng bigas sa bawat pamilya na aming bibilhin mula sa mga lokal na rice producer (We will provide 10 kilos of rice for each Manileño family, which we will purchase from our local rice producers)," the mayor said.

He also expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. for his continued support to the city, including the initial distribution of the P5,000 fuel subsidy given to tricycle drivers. 

Other public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators will also receive the subsidy in the coming days.

Stimulus package

On March 16, Domagoso bared a P1.76 billion stimulus plan designed to put money directly into the hands of residents and keep local economic activity moving as inflation continues to strain household budgets.

“Our plan is simple: stimulate the economy, augment what our people have, and cushion the impact of rising prices on every Manileño,” Domagoso said.

The program will reach roughly 15 percent of the city’s population, with a significant portion allocated to social amelioration efforts for senior citizens, solo parents, and persons with disabilities.

Additional support will also be extended through educational assistance and incentives for the public sector workers.