Nearly 400 sacks of National Food Authority (NFA) rice worth over P1 million were found spoiled and unfit for consumption in a Mandaue City warehouse, meant for distribution under the Sugbong Merkado (SMB) program.
The rice had been stored for more than a year, prompting Governor Pamela Baricuatro to order a full review of the program’s implementation and coordination with local government units.
Despite the loss, the program will continue with reforms to address logistical challenges, such as transportation costs and remote beneficiaries’ access.
Mandaue City, which has the largest unpaid balance of P1.077 million among participating local units, is reviewing its contract with the province before settling payments.
Disposal plans for the spoiled rice and the financial settlement have been delayed due to the lack of a formal agreement between the city and the provincial government.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 10, 2025
