Province Secures Rice Supply for Vulnerable Families
BACOLOD - The Negros Occidental provincial government has purchased approximately PHP170.999 million worth of rice to support families experiencing financial difficulties across the province. The procurement covers 251,470 sacks of 10-kilogram rice, intended for distribution to 125,735 beneficiary households under the Assistance to Indigent Individuals or Families-Food Assistance Rice Distribution Project. The program is funded through the Local Government Support Fund-Financial Assistance (LGSF-FA) provided by the national government. By securing the rice supply in advance, provincial officials aim to provide timely food assistance to families who need additional support with their household expenses.
Rice Assistance to Reach Cities and Municipalities
The assistance will cover all 19 municipalities and 12 cities of Negros Occidental, ensuring that beneficiaries from different parts of the province can receive support. Each qualified household is scheduled to receive 10 kilograms of rice per quarter during the third and fourth quarters of 2026. Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II said the bidding process for the rice assistance has already been completed, allowing the province to proceed with the distribution preparations. The program is expected to provide an important supplement to household food supplies, particularly for families facing higher living costs and limited income.
Supporting Food Security Across Negros Occidental
The rice distribution program forms part of the province's broader efforts to strengthen food security and provide assistance to vulnerable communities. For many low-income households, rice remains one of the largest and most essential components of their regular food expenses, making direct food assistance particularly valuable. With more than 125,000 households targeted, the program represents a significant provincial investment in helping families manage their daily needs. Through coordinated planning between the provincial government, cities, municipalities, and national agencies, Negros Occidental aims to ensure that the assistance reaches qualified households fairly and efficiently.
