DIGOS CITY: Approximately 600 vulnerable citizens in Davao del Sur accessed rice at a significantly reduced price of PHP29 per kilogram under the Bagong Bayaning Magsasaka (BBM) Rice program this Monday. The initiative, primarily aimed at members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and senior citizens, is part of a broader effort to support low-income groups in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Social Welfare and Development provided a list of beneficiaries for the rice distribution. Benjie Nierre, the operation and maintenance unit head of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) – Davao del Sur Irrigation Management Office, outlined the program’s goals during an interview. “We aim to sell rice at least three times a week,” Nierre stated, highlighting the initiative’s commitment to regular support. He also mentioned plans to distribute approximately 3,000 bags of rice, each containing 10 kilograms, across the province.
The rice for this program is sourced
from a contract farming initiative that currently spans 20 hectares in the region, with the immediate farming area covering 16.9 hectares in Hagonoy town. This initiative not only supports the local agriculture sector but also ensures a steady supply of affordable rice. Nierre shared optimistic future plans, aiming to expand the program to 250 hectares by 2025 and expecting a harvest of around 100 metric tons.
Farmers participating in the contract farming program are provided with PHP50,000 worth of farm inputs, including seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. Additionally, those who meet certain production targets can receive an extra PHP50,000 in performance incentives. Nierre noted the strong interest from local farmers and irrigators’ associations in joining the program, indicating a positive response from the agricultural community.
One of the beneficiaries, 66-year-old Danilo Rasura from Barangay Kiagot, expressed his gratitude for the program. “Thank you for the affordable rice, President Marcos. It wil
l greatly help those of us in the vulnerable sector,” he said, acknowledging the impact of the initiative on his daily life.