In a move to make rice more affordable, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced a significant price reduction for Rice for All (RFA) products at Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) centers and kiosks. Starting February 12, 2025, the price of RFA5 rice will be reduced to PHP43 per kilogram, RFA25 to PHP35 per kilogram, and RFA100 to PHP33 per kilogram. This decision comes in response to falling global rice prices and the approaching peak of the palay harvest season.
The DA’s initiative aims to provide relief to consumers by offering these lower prices, which are set to be more competitive than the current retail prices in Metro Manila. For instance, imported premium rice ranges from PHP48 to PHP58 per kilogram, while local premium rice is priced between PHP46 to PHP58 per kilogram. The RFA options will be significantly cheaper, making them an attractive choice for many Filipinos.
Additionally, the National Food Authority (NFA) will continue its P29 program, selling aging but good quality rice at PHP29 per kilogram to vulnerable sectors, including members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and solo parents.
The DA has also taken other measures to stabilize rice prices, such as lowering the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported 5 percent broken rice to PHP55 per kilogram and declaring a food security emergency for rice. These actions are part of a broader strategy to influence market prices and ensure rice remains accessible to all Filipinos.