By I. Inojales | 01:31 PM July 23, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — The provincial government of Bohol has expanded its implementation of the “Benteng Bigas Meron Na” (P20 Rice Project), extending the affordable rice program to all 47 municipalities and Tagbilaran City under the Department of Agriculture’s Rice-for-All Program.
The initiative, implemented through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, is part of the province’s continuing efforts to strengthen food security and provide affordable, quality rice to vulnerable sectors.
Launched in 2025, the program initially covered only seven local government units. This year, it has been expanded provincewide with a total allocation of P24 million, expected to benefit around 120,000 Boholanos.
Among the beneficiaries are indigent families, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, and members of indigenous communities.
To ensure a stable supply of affordable rice, the Provincial Government entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Food Terminal Incorporated (FTI) for the procurement and distribution of rice throughout the province.
The agreement was signed by Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado and FTI President and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Rudolph Lo.
Witnessing the signing were Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, Provincial Agriculturist Liza Quirog, Department of Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing and Consumer Affairs Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra, and National Food Authority Administrator Dr. Larry Lacson.
Provincial officials said the partnership with FTI aims to ensure transparent procurement and efficient distribution of rice, allowing more Boholanos to access quality rice at an affordable price.
The provincial government said the expanded program underscores its commitment to promoting food security, supporting vulnerable sectors, and building a more resilient and inclusive Bohol while complementing the national government’s efforts to make affordable rice accessible to Filipino families.
