Malacañang hit back at Vice President Sara Duterte for linking the administration’s P20-per-kilo rice program to the upcoming midterm elections, urging her to avoid “crab mentality” and be more supportive.
Duterte had criticized the initiative, suggesting it was a political stunt to boost the chances of government-backed senatorial candidates, even raising concerns about its quality.
Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro rejected these claims, stressing that the program was part of President Marcos’ commitment to providing affordable rice for Filipinos, starting in the Visayas.
She also dismissed allegations that the rice was unfit for consumption, asserting it was the same as regular rice sold at higher prices.
While some groups questioned the timing of the initiative, the program, which is funded by both national and local governments, aims to run until 2026, with the possibility of extending it further, according to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 25, 2025
