Manila, June 4 -- With the continuous expansion of the PHP20 per kilogram rice program in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the "Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na" has benefited around 9,487 households, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Wednesday.

This, the DA said, is equivalent to over 40,000 individuals who belong to the vulnerable sector, including the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and solo parents.

As of May 23, the DA has already sold 94.87 metric tons (MT) or 94,870 kg. of rice worth PHP1.9 million since May 13.

DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa underscored the public's remarkable acceptance of the BBM Na.

"Ito t...