Rice Distribution Paused in Danao City at P20/kilogram Rate
Heads Up, Danao City Steers Clear of 20-Kilo Rice Subsidy Program
Skip the Drama, Here's the Tea: Danao City has passed on the national government's 20-kilo rice subsidy program for now, leaving its citizens holding their breath. But why, you ask? Turns out, the city Government hasn't received a single hint of a formal invitation or directive from the program organizers[1][2].
In the Spotlight: Mayor Thomas Mark "Mix" Durano spoke to the press on May 1, 2025, revealing that his team's inbox is as empty as a ghost town when it comes tocommunication regarding this program. He shared that during the program's grand launch in various Cebu LGUs, the only place he heard about it was on the news[1].
Cue the Scene Change: Contrary to Danao City, Cebu Province jumped on the bandwagon, launching the Sugbo Merkadong Barato (SMB) program, which aims to provide affordable rice to those in need[3]. This program is a collaborative effort between the Provincial Government and the Department of Agriculture (DA), eagerly leading the P20/kilo rice initiative.
The 'Not Invited' List: Danao City was absent from the initial phase of the program, and Durano was quick to clarify that the city wasn't intentionally left out. With no formal coordination, participation was impossible[1].
Curious Questions: Durano raised some eyebrows when he asked questions about the sales procedures, documentation, and financial handling of the program. He pondered over who would be in charge of receiving the payment, issuing receipts, and managing stock[1].
Transparency and Timing: Durano emphasized the importance of transparency and proper coordination in any government program involving public funds. He also cautioned against rushing the program without adequate planning[1].
Supportive, but Selective: Although Durano expressed support for the program, he proposed that distribution should be carried out through local retailers instead of the city government to ensure accessibility[1].
Keeping Priorities Straight: Despite not being a part of the Capitol's SMB program, Danao City has been backing local agriculture through its own initiatives. Residents have benefited from local produce sold through the Kadiwa sa Pangulo program and the city's own rice subsidy program[2].
On the Fence: Exemptions from election spending bans didn't sway Danao City's decision as participation remains voluntary for LGUs[1]. However, the Department of Agriculture's framework requires LGUs to share subsidy costs[1]. Durano's hesitation seems rooted in operational clarity concerns rather than financial or logistical limitations[1][2].
Support the Local Crew: As of late April 2025, the national program boasts a healthy rice buffer stock of 378,157 metric tons, ready to fuel subsidized rice promises in various regions, including Cebu. However, these efforts don't yet include Danao City[5]. Stay tuned for updates!
- Despite not receiving an official invitation, the government of Danao City expressed concerns about the sales procedures, documentation, and financial handling of the national rice subsidy program.
- In contrast, the government of Cebu Province launched their own program, Sugbo Merkado Barato, to provide affordable rice, leading the initiative along with the Department of Agriculture.
- Mayor Durano of Danao City, when speaking to the press, emphasized the importance of transparency and proper coordination in any government program involving public funds and questioned who would oversee the procurement, issuing of receipts, and management of the stock.
- Despite lacking involvement in the Capitol's SMB program, Danao City is supporting local agriculture through its own initiatives, such as the Kadiwa sa Pangulo program and its own rice subsidy program.
- Although Danao City was eligible for exemptions from election spending bans, the city remains cautious about participating in the national rice subsidy program, citing operational clarity concerns rather than financial or logistical limitations.
