Rice P20 Program Draws Criticism from VP Sara, Palace Hits Back
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APRIL 24,2025
MANILA, Philippines – April 24, 2025 — The Palace fired back at Vice President Sara Duterte on Thursday after she criticized the rollout of the P20 per kilo rice program in the Visayas. Malacañang urged her to focus on unity instead of division.
“Huwag pairalin ang crab mentality,” said Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro during a press briefing. She emphasized that the administration wants to ease the cost of living for ordinary Filipinos through this affordable rice initiative.
Rice P20 Program Starts in Visayas
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. confirmed that the Department of Agriculture has begun the pilot run of the P20 per kilo rice in the Visayas. He explained that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. aims to expand the program nationwide in the future.
Laurel highlighted that this initiative focuses on sustainable agricultural reform, better supply chain logistics, and direct market access for consumers. He added that it’s not a campaign gimmick, but part of the government’s food security plan.
Rice P20 Program is Politically Motivated– VP Sara Duterte
Vice President Sara Duterte questioned the timing of the rollout. She believes the administration used the program to boost support for its senatorial candidates ahead of the 2025 elections.
“Mukhang niloloko na naman ang taumbayan,” she said, adding that leaders must avoid using public welfare for political gain. According to her, the public deserves transparency and long-term solutions, not temporary tactics.
RELATED STORY: Political Gimmick? Sara Duterte Slams ₱20-Per-Kilo
Palace Responds: Don’t Tie It to Survey Ratings
Undersecretary Castro also addressed speculations about the connection between the rice program and the recent drop in President Marcos’ trust and performance ratings in March 2025.
She clarified that the government had already planned the program before the survey results came out. “Let’s not reduce meaningful reforms to mere political reactions,” she added.
What Filipino Families Need to Know
As political leaders exchange statements, many Filipino families wait for genuine solutions to high food costs. Rice prices remain one of their biggest concerns, especially in low-income households.
The government said it will monitor the rice rollout closely, ensure proper distribution, and provide assistance to local farmers. Officials plan to extend the program to Luzon and Mindanao in the latter half of 2025 if the pilot succeeds.
RELATED STORY: Filipino Farmers: Kiko Says P20 Rice Not Sustainable
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