Jeepney, tricycle drivers can ‘breathe easier’ with rice program

AS PROMISED The municipality of Argao, on May 1, launches the sale of rice at P20 per kilo, along with other localities in the province, under the provincial government’s “Sugbo Merkadong Barato” program. —ARGAO LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT/FACEBOOK

MANILA, Philippines — House Speaker Martin Romualdez said jeepney and tricycle drivers can “breathe easier” with their inclusion in the government’s subsidized rice program.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced on Friday that transport workers would be included in the program that offers rice at P20 per kilogram (kg) starting September 16.

“With the help of the Department of Agriculture and the Kadiwa ng Pangulo, our drivers can breathe more easily and take home affordable and quality rice for their loved ones,” Romualdez said in Filipino in a statement on Saturday.

“Our jeepney and tricycle drivers are affected by the rising prices of petrol. That’s why they’re worrying about how to make ends meet for their families’ needs,” he added.

READ: Jeepney, tricycle drivers added to rice program

The inclusion of jeepney and tricycle drivers in the rice program would be piloted in five cities.

Workers to be endorsed by the Department of Transportation will be allowed to buy up to 10 kg of rice per month at 212 Kadiwa ng Pangulo outlets and accredited sites at local government offices. /jpv