By I. Inojales | 07:33 PM February 26, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — Bohol has been granted P196 million under the Fiscal Year 2026 Local Government Support Fund–Financial Assistance (LGSF-FA) Bagong Pilipinas Rice Program, strengthening the province’s push to enhance rice production and food security.
The funding, approved by Ferdinand Marcos Jr., was formally confirmed in a communication dated February 23, 2026.
Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado personally attended the engagement at Malacañang Palace, where beneficiary local government units were recognized.
The assistance will be directly downloaded to the provincial government of Bohol through a digitized system to ensure transparency and compliance with national budgeting, accounting, and auditing standards. The streamlined process is intended to allow the immediate implementation of priority rice development projects across the province.
Under the Bagong Pilipinas Rice Program of the national government, the fund is aimed at ensuring affordable and accessible rice supply while strengthening support for local farmers. It seeks to bridge gaps in productivity and market access so that economic gains at the national level translate into tangible benefits for Filipino households.
Provincial officials said the P196-million allocation will support expanded irrigation, farm inputs, post-harvest facilities, and other interventions designed to increase yield and improve farmers’ income.
The initiative complements Bohol’s broader agricultural agenda, which positions farming as a cornerstone of inclusive growth and rural development.
In a statement, Governor Aumentado stressed that the fund represents public money entrusted to the province and must be used effectively to uplift communities and ensure stable, affordable food supply. He reiterated that strengthening agriculture remains central to Bohol’s long-term development strategy, particularly in advancing climate-resilient and sustainable farming systems.
Representatives from various local government leagues also attended the Malacañang engagement, signaling unified support from provincial, city, and municipal leaders in implementing the program.
With the new allocation, Bohol aims to accelerate rice sector reforms and reinforce its commitment to ensuring that no Bol-anon family is left behind in achieving food security and economic progress.
