The Department of Agriculture (DA) and state-owned Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) on Friday urged Filipinos not to abuse the government’s subsidized rice program, warning that unusually large crowds at distribution sites are creating the false impression of a supply shortage.
Officials said the flagship “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” initiative—popularly known as the P20-per-kilo rice program—continues to have sufficient supply despite long queues reported in several areas.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. assured beneficiaries that rice stocks remain adequate, stressing that the National Food Authority (NFA) is continuously milling palay to replenish inventories being sold at government-run KADIWA Program centers and other distribution sites managed by local government units.
“We understand that the conflict in the Middle East is stoking anxiety among many Filipinos, especially those in vulnerable sectors,” Tiu Laurel said. “But acting out of panic will only worsen the situation. We have enough rice buffer, and a good harvest.”
The DA issued the appeal after reports surfaced that certain groups were attempting to overwhelm distribution points, fueling speculation that supplies were running thin.
FTI president Joseph Lo said crowd surges—particularly outside the DA’s headquarters in Quezon City—have stretched queues and heightened anxiety among beneficiaries, even though stocks remain available.
“The long lines create an illusion of shortage,” Lo said, noting that distribution hours have been extended by several hours to accommodate more buyers.
Still, he acknowledged that logistics and storage capacity limit the number of consumers who can be served daily.
“P20 rice supply is limited by location and logistics. Stocks are delivered regularly and distributed fairly across our sites nationwide,” Lo said. “We understand the public’s urgent need and we are doing everything possible to serve as many beneficiaries as we can each day.”
Distribution continues daily, with registered beneficiaries assured access to subsidized rice through the program’s registry system.
“Beneficiaries do not need to panic or rush,” Lo said. “Rice will be available as long as they are registered in the Benteng Bigas Registry System. Registered individuals are guaranteed eligibility to purchase rice.”
To ensure fairness and prevent hoarding, each beneficiary is allowed to purchase up to 10 kilograms of rice per day, but not in excess of his or her monthly allocation.
Major beneficiaries include senior citizens, persons with disabilities, indigent families, solo parents, farmers, fishers, minimum wage earners and public transport workers.
Lo urged consumers to exercise restraint.
“We encourage responsible purchasing. Buy only what your family needs for daily consumption so others can also benefit,” he said. “Our goal is to make distribution safer, more orderly and equitable for everyone.”
