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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Mindanao devider Cotabato launches 'Benteng Bigas ' at Kalivungan Festival

Cotabato launches 'Benteng Bigas ' at Kalivungan Festival

Published Aug 26, 2026 10:16 pm
The North Cotabato Province launched on Wednesday morning, August 26, the government's P20-per-kilo rice under the Benteng Bigas Meron Na (BBM Na!) at The Basket of the Provincial Capitol in Kidapawan City. (Photo via Ivy Tejano / MB)
The North Cotabato Province launched on Wednesday morning, August 26, the government's P20-per-kilo rice under the Benteng Bigas Meron Na (BBM Na!) at The Basket of the Provincial Capitol in Kidapawan City. (Photo via Ivy Tejano / MB)
KIDAPAWAN CITY – The Cotabato Provincial Government on Wednesday, August 26, launched the Marcos administration's P20-per-kilo rice program under the "Benteng Bigas Meron Na (BBM Na!)," giving qualified beneficiaries access to more affordable rice amid rising household expenses.
Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary Genevieve Guevarra and provincial officials, led by Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, led the rollout at the Provincial Capitol in Kidapawan City during the opening of the 2026 Kalivungan Festival.
Guevarra said the program aims not only to provide affordable rice to qualified beneficiaries but also to support local farmers by creating a market for their produce and ensuring a stable food supply for communities.
"Bente Rice is not only about cheap rice. It is a promise fulfilled—the promise of sufficient and affordable food for our people while continuing to support our farmers," Guevarra said in her speech during the program of the festival opening.
She said the rice sold under the program is locally produced by farmers and purchased through the National Food Authority (NFA), allowing it to be sold at P20 per kilo to qualified beneficiaries with the help of partner agencies.
Guevarra also emphasized that agriculture should go beyond production and provide farmers with better income and livelihood opportunities. She added that food security remains a priority, noting the important role of farmers and fisherfolk in providing food to communities.
The DA Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service also said the rollout in Cotabato demonstrates how cooperation between national and local governments can help deliver services more quickly to communities.
In a separate speech, Atty. Oliver Dicdican, vice president for Corporate Affairs of Food Terminal Incorporated, emphasized that the program aims to help more families access affordable rice, particularly amid rising prices of basic commodities.
"By prioritizing sectors most in need, the program is expected to help families save money for other essential expenses," Dicdican said. "The government continues to support local farmers by purchasing their palay at fair prices."
Dicdican said the local government, national government, and Food Terminal Incorporated are working together to implement the program, as the BBM Na! aims to make quality rice available to qualified beneficiaries at P20 per kilo.
According to Dicdican, local government units interested in implementing the program must apply through the DA and coordinate with the National Food Authority (NFA) and Food Terminal Incorporated to ensure supply, funding, and compliance with distribution guidelines.
Mendoza credited the successful launch and other festival activities to the cooperation of the provincial government, national agencies, and other offices. She said the province aims to showcase Cotabato's resources while ensuring that government services reach the people.

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Kidapawan City Kalivungan Festival Benteng Bigas Meron Na
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