President Marcos has led the rollout of the “Biyayang Bigas” program in Manila, reiterating his goal of ensuring that no Filipino goes hungry by the end of his term.
Speaking during the distribution at SM City Manila on Thursday, April 16, the President said the initiative is part of the administration’s broader effort to address food security amid rising prices.
“Sana pagbaba ko bilang Pangulo ay masasabi ko wala nang gutom na Pilipino (I hope that when I step down as President, I can say that no Filipino goes hungry),” he said.
“Sana po ay kahit papaano matupad ang aking pangarap… wala na pong gutom na Pilipino (I hope we can achieve this dream… that no Filipino goes hungry),” he added.
Rice as priority
The President emphasized that rice remains central to Filipino food security.
He said ensuring access to rice is key to addressing hunger among vulnerable sectors.
With this, Marcos said that as of April 15, the government has released nearly P15 billion for the program.
Around 80,000 beneficiaries in Manila alone are expected to receive assistance. Each beneficiary will receive 10 kilos of rice six times a year.
Nationwide rollout
Marcos said the program, which targets low-income families and workers most affected by rising costs, will not be limited to Manila. He noted that Manila was prioritized due to the local government’s readiness.
The program is implemented through the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), allowing faster delivery of aid.
“Binigay na po natin sa ating mga local government para naman ay mabilis (We have given the funds to local governments so delivery will be faster),” he said.
The President said local governments are better positioned to identify beneficiaries.
“Sila ang on the ground… sila ang nakakaalam kung sino ang nangangailangan (They are on the ground… they know who needs help),” he said, noting that routing funds through LGUs cuts bureaucratic delays.
He likewise expressed hope that sustained implementation will help achieve food security goals.
Amid oil crisis
The President said the program comes at a critical time as rising oil prices drive up food costs.
“Nagtaasan ang presyo ng langis… sabay-sabay, lalong-lalo na ang pagkain (Oil prices have risen… and along with it, especially food prices),” he said.
“Wala tayong magagawa doon sa presyo ng langis. Ngunit sa presyo ng pagkain, yun mayroon tayong magagawa (We cannot control oil prices, but we can act on food prices),” he added.
Marcos said programs like Biyayang Bigas are meant to cushion the impact on households.
