MANILA, May 28 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday said it would study the possible importation of rice from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to help sustain the PHP20 per kg. rice program dubbed "Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na" until 2028.

This came after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed confidence in the sustainability of BBM Na, citing target partnerships with other countries.

In a press conference, DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the move may be coursed through the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI).

"Pwedeng pag-aralan kung syempre of course, limited yung NFA (National Food Authority) rice. Kung i-expand pa natin (We can study that of course if there's limited NFA rice. If we ...