Pagadian launches rice subsidy drive

Residents awaited the rice distribution at the city gym last week. —Photos by Pagadian City Information Office

PAGADIAN CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR, Philippines — The local government here has kicked off the first cycle of its rice subsidy distribution program, reaching 5,535 qualified residents across 54 barangays during the first rollout, in a bid to ease food insecurity among vulnerable households.

The initiative forms part of the Local Government Support Fund–Financial Assistance (LGSF-FA), a national program that provides 60 kilos of free rice annually to more than five million indigent families nationwide.

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Distribution is carried out in bi-monthly cycles by local government units, with beneficiaries undergoing strict validation by City Social Welfare and Development Offices (CSWDO).

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The program prioritizes indigent families, minimum wage earners, senior citizens and persons with disabilities, explained Pagadian City Mayor Samuel Co.

READ: Bohol rice subsidy program reaches over 26,000 indigent families

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“We remain committed to delivering programs that uplift the welfare of our constituents and promote inclusive development across all barangays,” he said.

Under Joint Circular No. 1, series of 2026 by the Department of Budget and Management and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, local governments are encouraged to procure rice directly from accredited local farmers, a measure aimed at strengthening rural agricultural enterprises while ensuring steady supply for distribution.

Pagadian City has complemented the national subsidy by trimming down its recent charter anniversary festivities and diverting at least P15 million into local rice aid for low-income families. /cb

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