QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) issued a stern warning against panic-buying and the “abuse” of the government’s subsidized rice program, clarifying that massive queues at distribution sites are creating a “false impression” of a supply crisis.
Officials maintain that the flagship “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” initiative, or more popularly known as the Php 20-per-kilo rice program remains well-stocked despite heavy foot traffic reported at several KADIWA centers.
The appeal follows reports of certain groups attempting to overwhelm distribution points, which sparked online speculation that stocks were thinning. FTI President Joseph Lo pointed specifically to surges outside the DA headquarters in Quezon City, noting that these scenes heightened public anxiety even as rice remained available.
Lo stated that the long lines create an “illusion of shortage,” explaining that while logistics and storage capacity limit how many people can be served per hour, the actual supply is consistent. In response to the high demand, distribution hours have been extended to accommodate more buyers.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. moved to reassure the public, noting that the National Food Authority (NFA) is continuously milling palay to replenish inventories at KADIWA centers and local government distribution sites. He acknowledged that while global conflicts may be stoking anxiety among vulnerable sectors, acting out of panic will only worsen the situation, especially since the country currently maintains an adequate rice buffer and a good harvest.
To ensure fairness and prevent hoarding, the government is enforcing strict purchasing limits. Each beneficiary is restricted to a maximum of 10 kilograms of rice per day, provided it does not exceed their total monthly allocation. Access is guaranteed for those listed in the “Benteng Bigas Registry System,” or the registered users, including senior citizens, PWDs, indigent families, solo parents, farmers, fishers, minimum wage earners, and public transport workers so there’s no need to rush to the sites.
Lo also urged consumers to exercise restraint and buy only what is necessary for daily consumption to keep the process safe, orderly, and equitable for everyone.