P25 per kilo rice in Negros Occidental’s Bigas ng Bayan
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL – The ‘Bigas ng Bayan’ is offering rice at an affordable price of P25 per kilogram.
This endeavor is the outcome of a partnership between the Negros Occidental provincial government and the Federation of Irrigators Association of Central Negros-Bago River Irrigation System (FIACN-BRIS), aimed at enhancing public access to rice. Starting on October 12, residents of Bacolod City have the opportunity to purchase rice at this reduced rate.
Governor Jose Lacson expressed his gratitude for the role played by the irrigators’ association in bringing this program to fruition. The FIACN-BRIS consists of farmers from Bago City and nearby local government units who are dedicated to supporting the community by providing affordable rice. Governor Lacson emphasized their willingness to share with the community and assist consumers.
The Bigas ng Bayan commercial stall, located at the Food Terminal Market in Negros Occidental, witnessed an enthusiastic response from residents. They rushed to purchase rice at a discounted rate, with the governor and mayor attending the event. This initiative is part of the province’s efforts to promote rice self-sufficiency and provide assistance to rice farmers affected by natural disasters.
The outstanding track record of the farmers’ association led the provincial government to hire farmers for its rice self-sufficiency program. These job order workers received a monthly wage of ₱12,000 and were entrusted with tasks such as planting rice and operating equipment and machinery to support local rice farmers.
Representing 44 irrigators’ associations in Central Negros, FIACN-BRIS initially offered rice at ₱25 per kilo to 455 individuals. Governor Lacson noted that the availability of this affordable rice is contingent on supply.
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez expressed his gratitude to the farmers for their generosity and is exploring the possibility of continuing the rice production program in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas office. This joint effort underscores the commitment of both the government and the farming community to ensure affordable rice for the residents of Negros Occidental.
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