Cebu Governor-elect Pamela Baricuatro and Cebu City Mayor-elect Nestor Archival have voiced their support for the P20-per-kilo rice initiative, signaling strong local backing for the national government’s food subsidy program.
In an interview with the Daily Tribune, Baricuatro emphasized that her administration is open to participating in the program, contingent on the availability of funds. She underscored the importance of making affordable rice accessible to all Cebuanos and reaffirmed food security as a key priority alongside healthcare.
Meanwhile, Archival confirmed his attendance at a recent meeting regarding the rice initiative. He detailed a cost-sharing arrangement in which the Cebu City government would shoulder half the subsidy, with the national government covering the rest. He noted that the city’s financial contribution would be recoverable upon sale.
The statements came following a visit from National Food Authority (NFA) Administrator Larry Lacson on Friday, who assured local officials of sufficient rice supply. According to Lacson, approximately 35,000 bags are currently available for Cebu.
As of the latest count, 35 out of 53 local government units in Cebu have opted to join the P20-per-kilo rice program.
