The Department of Agriculture on Tuesday rolled out the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program in Makati City, bringing subsidized rice to one of the country’s wealthiest urban centers while underscoring a growing reality that even affluent cities are not insulated from economic strain caused by soaring petroleum product prices.

Around 750 beneficiaries were served during the ceremonial launch attended by Mayor Nancy Binay and other city officials, as the government pushed to expand the flagship food initiative of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. amid rising living costs tied to global energy volatility caused by the Middle East tension.

The program offers rice at P20 per kilo to vulnerable sectors, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, transport workers, and 4Ps beneficiaries.  While Makati is known for its strong fiscal position, officials acknowledged that pockets of vulnerability persist, particularly as fuel-driven inflation squeezes household budgets.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. framed the initiative as both relief and resilience. “During these challenging times, initiatives envisioned by President Marcos, such as the P20 rice program, are a big help for the tight budgets of Filipino families,” he said. ### (Photos by Ian  Leañ0, AFID & Darrel Gultia, OSEC Comms)