P20/kg rice available at Clark ecozone starting Dec. 1

Title P20/kg Rice Program Launches at Clark Ecozone A Game-Changer for Workers' Welfare

The Department of Agriculture's (DA) P20-per-kilogram rice program, known as Benteng Bigas Meron Na!, is poised to revolutionize the lives of over 150,000 workers in the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone. Commencing on December 1, this innovative initiative will make affordable and accessible food a reality for employees in the ecozone.

A Program Born from Necessity

The P20/kg rice program is a direct response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to provide affordable food options for Filipino workers. Labor Secretary Bienvido Laguesma will attend the program's launch at Clark, which coincides with the government's Pamaskong Handog para sa mga Manggagawa campaign.

A Local Food System in Action

The rice will be sold through Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets in the ecozone, ensuring freshness and reducing transport costs. The DA's Zero-Kilometer Food System advocates for local food production, processing, and sale to empower farmers nationwide. This approach not only benefits workers but also supports local agriculture, fostering a more sustainable future.

A Step Toward Inclusive Growth

The program is a partnership between the DA and Clark Development Corp. (CDC). CDC president and CEO Agnes Devanadera welcomes the collaboration, highlighting the diverse workforce and expanding investor base in Clark as ideal conditions for the pilot run.

This partnership is a concrete step toward inclusive growth, Devanadera said. By bringing food closer to the workplace, we bring dignity and stability to the everyday lives of our workers.

A Catalyst for Change

The P20/kg rice program has the potential to revolutionize the lives of leatherworkers in 2025 by

Providing affordable food options for workers
Empowering local farmers through the Zero-Kilometer Food System
Fostering inclusive growth and stability

As we move forward, it's clear that this program will be a game-changer for workers' welfare. By bringing fresh, affordable rice to the doorstep of over 150,000 employees in Clark, we're not just addressing a basic need – we're building a more sustainable future.

Key Takeaways

The P20/kg rice program will launch at Clark Ecozone on December 1
Over 150,000 workers may benefit from the program
The initiative is part of President Marcos Jr.'s directive to provide accessible and affordable food for Filipino workers
The DA's Zero-Kilometer Food System advocates for local food production, processing, and sale to empower farmers nationwide

Conclusion

The P20/kg rice program is a beacon of hope for workers in the Clark Ecozone. By making affordable food options available, we're not just addressing a basic need – we're building a more sustainable future. As we look ahead to 2025, it's clear that this program will have far-reaching implications for leatherworkers and beyond.

Keywords* P20/kg rice program, Benteng Bigas Meron Na!, Clark Ecozone, DA, Zero-Kilometer Food System, inclusive growth, workers' welfare, local food system.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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