CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The National Irrigation Administration in Northern Mindanao (NIA-10) provided low-cost rice to marginalized groups on Friday, selling it at PHP29 per kilogram.
Larry Franada, acting regional manager of NIA-10, said a coupon system was used to ensure that only eligible individuals could purchase the rice. He emphasized that recipients are prohibited from reselling the rice, as the program is designed to support those in need.
The rice distribution is part of the nationwide launch of the "Kadiwa ng Pangulo Murang Bigas sa NIA @P29" initiative.
NIA Deputy Administrator for Engineering and Operations C’zar Sulaik explained that the rice is sourced from the agency's contract farming program, which works with irrigation associations in designated areas.
“This rice comes from identified irrigation associations in our irrigated lands, with a targeted number of hectares dedicated to the program,” Sulaik said.
Eligible buyers included vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
During the event, 700 bags of rice, each weighing 10 kilograms, were sold to the targeted beneficiaries. (PNA)
