Marcos Administration Expands ₱20-per-Kilo Rice Program to Cover Seniors, PWDs, and Transport Drivers in Ilocos Sur

The Marcos administration has officially expanded its ₱20-per-kilo rice program in Ilocos Sur to now include senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and public transport drivers, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. announced yesterday. This move aims to further cushion the impact of rising food costs and protect vulnerable sectors from economic hardship.

Under the expanded program, eligible beneficiaries are entitled to purchase between 10 to 50 kilograms of NFA rice annually at the subsidized rate of ₱20 per kilo. This entitlement aligns with previous allocations for low-income families and other marginalized groups, maintaining consistency and fairness in rice distribution.

Local Government Units (LGUs) in Ilocos Sur have coordinated closely with the Department of Agriculture and the National Food Authority (NFA) to ensure the smooth rollout of this broader assistance scheme. According to NFA officials, stocks are currently sufficient to meet the increased demand, with warehouses near Ilocos Sur holding ample rice supplies earmarked specifically for this program.

The Kadiwa community stores play a vital role in supporting the government’s efforts by facilitating easier access to affordable rice in barangays across the province. "Kadiwa is our partner in bringing rice closer to our people, particularly our seniors, PWDs, and transport drivers who face daily economic challenges," said a regional Kadiwa coordinator.

President Marcos Jr. framed the expanded rice subsidy as a hallmark of his "Maasahan at Masipag" governance—signifying reliable and hardworking leadership committed to practical, community-centered solutions. In a statement, he emphasized, "This program embodies our message: "Reliable Relief, Tireless Service: Affordable rice accessible for every Filipino family." We stand as the reliable guardian of food security, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in securing basic needs."

The program’s expansion underscores the administration’s resolve to protect food affordability while uplifting vulnerable populations. As the Philippines grapples with price fluctuations and global supply chain uncertainties, initiatives like the ₱20-per-kilo rice scheme demonstrate pragmatic governance rooted in compassion and collaboration.

Local beneficiaries have expressed gratitude for the government’s tangible support. Rosario Santos, a senior citizen beneficiary from Vigan City, shared, "This program helps us stretch our limited income for other essentials. It is a big relief knowing we have steady access to affordable rice."

Likewise, PWD organizations and transport driver groups have welcomed the initiative as a critical lifeline amid continuing economic pressures.

The Marcos administration vows to sustain and monitor the program’s effectiveness, reinforcing coordination with LGUs and NFA to uphold supply sufficiency and equitable distribution. With clear lines of cooperation and a community-based approach, the rice subsidy program in Ilocos Sur continues to serve as a model for food security interventions across the nation.