Mayor Emi Caliuxto-Rubiano distributes 10 kilos of rice during the launch to vulnerable sectors. (Photo from Pasay PIO)
The Pasay City government launched on Monday, March 23, a P20-per-kilo premium rice program in response to rising food prices amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
The program was introduced at the Pasay City Cuneta Astrodome in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA), National Food Authority (NFA), and Kadiwa ng Pangulo.
Around 1,500 residents from vulnerable sectors each received 10 kilos of rice during the launch.
Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano said the initiative aims to ease the burden on residents affected by the increasing cost of basic commodities due to global supply chain disruptions.
Rubiano said premium-quality rice will be made available at P20 per kilogram in designated markets across the city.
She added that residents may purchase up to 30 kilos of rice per month under the program.
The mayor said that the move fulfills the city government’s commitment to ensuring food security and aligns with the national government’s goal of making essential goods more affordable for Filipino families.
“Our residents are feeling the weight of international conflicts through the rising cost of living,” Rubiano said.
Rubiano explained hat by bringing P20-per-kilo rice to Pasay, the city government aims to help ease the burden on residents and ensure that no family goes hungry during these challenging times.