Tawi-tawi: The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday assured that no province will be left behind in its PHP20 per kg rice program under the 'Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na'. The DA made this assurance as the government launched the BBM Na initiative in Tawi-Tawi, marking a significant step in the agency's nationwide expansion efforts aimed at fulfilling the food security and affordability targets set by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

According to Philippines News Agency, the move to expand the program to Tawi-Tawi is considered strategic by Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing and Consumer Affairs Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra, given the province's lack of local rice production. Guevarra emphasized the commitment of President Marcos to ensure that no province or Filipino is left behind, despite geographical challenges such as the separation of islands from trade centers.

Tawi-Tawi Governor Yshmael Sali expressed his support for the program, highlighting its benefits for qualified beneficiaries. He affirmed the provincial government's commitment to the P20 Benteng Bigas program, recognizing it as a significant aid to families in need. Tawi-Tawi, which relies heavily on fisheries and seaweed sectors, faces challenges in accessing affordable local rice and depends on shipments from other regions.

Guevarra reiterated the importance of Tawi-Tawi in the national goal of providing sufficient, affordable, and quality rice for every Filipino family. The BBM Na program is expected to benefit approximately 25,000 individuals in the province, including local fishers, seaweed farmers, members of low-income households, and other vulnerable sectors, who will be eligible to purchase rice at PHP20 per kg.