Rice Subsidy Program Reaches Over 7,000 Minimum Wage Earners in Negros Oriental

The Philippines' Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has implemented a rice subsidy program, dubbed "Benteng Bigas Meron Na," which has already benefited over 7,000 minimum wage earners in Negros Oriental. The program, which provides rice at a subsidized price of PHP20 per kilogram, is designed to help workers access affordable food and reduce their living costs. Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma led the distribution of rice to 50 beneficiaries in Dumaguete City, highlighting the program's expansion across different sectors.

Key Takeaways:

• The "Benteng Bigas Meron Na" rice subsidy program has benefited over 7,000 minimum wage earners in Negros Oriental since its rollout in June.
• The program is not exclusive to indigents, as workers from private establishments are also eligible to receive the rice subsidy.
• Employers purchase rice at subsidized prices and distribute it to workers through salary deduction, with participating companies submitting employees' names to DOLE for verification.
• The program has already been adopted by security agencies, sugar industry players, hotels, and resorts in the province, with more private firms encouraged to enroll their employees in the initiative.
• The rice subsidy program aims to help workers access affordable food, boost morale, and ensure food security at the household level.

Statistics:

• Over 7,000 minimum wage earners in Negros Oriental have benefited from the "Benteng Bigas Meron Na" rice subsidy program.
• 50 beneficiaries in Dumaguete City received rice distribution led by Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma.
• The program has already been adopted by 4 establishments in Dumaguete City, including Prime Retail Corporation, Dynamic Development Corporation, Luxe Prime Retail Corporation, and Superstore Retail Corporation.

Sources:

• Pauline Millare, Philippines News agency, "P20/kg rice unfolds in Negros Oriental"