The Department of Agriculture (DA) has stood firm on the government's decision to offer rice at P29 per kilo in Kadiwa outlets, emphasizing its aim to support the impoverished segments of society.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has stood firm on the government's decision to offer rice at P29 per kilo in Kadiwa outlets, emphasizing its aim to support the impoverished segments of society.
Agriculture Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson Arnel de Mesa stated that the program is currently in its trial phase, with plans for a nationwide rollout slated for July.
De Mesa noted logistical and operational challenges being assessed, limiting rice quantities at Kadiwa centers initially.
The initiative targets to assist at least 25 percent of the country's impoverished population, acknowledged De Mesa, who highlighted the heavy subsidies required to maintain the P29 per kilo price point, significantly lower than prevailing retail prices of P50 to P52 per kilo.
"The subsidy will be a joint effort between national and local government units, given the substantial price difference," De Mesa explained, stressing the importance of ongoing testing to address bottlenecks and challenges.
Raul Montemayor, National Manager of the Federation of Free Farmers, emphasized the necessity of sustained government subsidies for the P29 per kilo pricing, citing production costs and potential losses for farmers if subsidies were withdrawn.
Jayson Cainglet, Executive Director of the Farmers’ group Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura, echoed concerns about sustainability, pointing out that the current purchase limit of five kilos per consumer at Kadiwa outlets may not effectively benefit the poorest segments, who might only afford two kilos.
As debates surrounding the program's feasibility continue, the DA remains committed to its goal of providing affordable rice to those in need through the Kadiwa initiative.
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