DA to expand P20/kilo rice program in Clark

More than 150,000 workers in the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone in Pampanga are expected to benefit from the government’s P20-per-kilo rice initiative as the Department of Agriculture (DA) moves to expand the program in the area.

In a statement, the DA said it is targeting a December 1 rollout of the P20/kilo rice at the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), with distribution to be handled through Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets inside the zone.

“This is just the start,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.

“By strengthening local food systems, we are not only protecting our workers’ welfare but also empowering our farmers nationwide,” he added.

Tiu Laurel said the program is anchored on the DA’s Zero-Kilometer Food System, which encourages the production, processing and sale of food within localities to lower transport costs and ensure fresher products.

CDC President and CEO Agnes VST Devanadera welcomed the partnership, calling it a step toward improving worker welfare.

“When we bring food closer to the workplace, we bring dignity and stability to the everyday lives of our workers,” she said.—MCG, GMA Integrated News