In a groundbreaking move to enhance food security, the National Irrigation Administration in Bicol (NIA-5) has begun daily sales of Bagong Bayaning Magsasaka (BBM) rice in Camarines Sur. This initiative, launched from the NIA-Camarines Sur Irrigation Management Office in Barangay Sta. Lucia, Magarao town, aims to provide affordable, freshly milled rice to the community, particularly to those in vulnerable sectors.
Ma. Cleofe Baraero, spokesperson for NIA-5, highlighted that the BBM rice, dubbed ‘Bagasan Ara-aldaw’ or ‘rice every day,’ is a boon for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, 4Ps beneficiaries, and solo parents, available to them at a subsidized rate of PHP29 per kilo. The general public can also purchase this rice at PHP35 per kilo, with a purchase limit set between 5 to 10 kg per transaction.
The office operates from Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., ensuring a steady supply sourced from the December harvest of partner irrigators under the contract farming program. Baraero assured that the supply is robust and expected to last until the next harvest in May or June, thanks to ongoing milling by irrigators associations.
Previously available sporadically at various Kadiwa stores in the region, the daily availability of BBM rice in Camarines Sur marks a significant step forward. The contract farming program, set to continue until 2025, will expand across all six provinces, promising to further bolster rice production and availability.