DA launches Benteng Bigas list-up system

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has launched the Benteng Bigas Masterlist (BBM) Registry System, a digital platform designed to streamline the operations of the P20-per-kilo rice program.

Developed by the agency's Information and Communications Technology Service (DA-ICTS), the P20 Registry System is part of the agency’s activities for Rice Awareness Month.

“After testing conducted last month, we are now ready to deploy the P20 Registry System, which will ultimately serve approximately 15 million households — equivalent to about 60 million Filipinos — benefiting from the subsidized rice initiative,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a press release issued Monday.

“This project is a clear example of how the DA can leverage technology to modernize Philippine agriculture and food security,” he added.

The DA said the P20 rice program also provides a stable market for locally produced rice, which the National Food Authority buys at fairer prices.

Tiu Laurel said the online system would allow the program’s expansion to other sectors such as teachers, security guards, and transport workers including bus drivers and delivery riders.

Meanwhile, DA-ICTS Chief Honorio Flameño said intended beneficiaries of the government’s subsidized rice program may register at designated P20 outlets.

He said beneficiaries need to present valid identification cards for verification. A QR code will be generated upon successful registration, which will then be used for purchasing P20 rice.

“The P20 Registry System link will be available for those who opt to register online by December 2025 through various platforms such as the eGov Portal, DA website, and DA Facebook page," Flameño said.

"This offers convenience to target beneficiaries as they can pre-register anytime, anywhere,” he added.—MCG, GMA Integrated News