CAMIGUIN (PIA) — Making rice accessible to the residents at half the usual price, Camiguin is the first province in the Philippines to roll out the Ayuda Para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) Rice initiative on December 14.
During the launch, Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo, accompanied by Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo, visited several participating retailers to witness the program’s impact. He expressed his joy at seeing families benefit from the discounted rice, calling it a much-needed relief for many.
“Ang AKAP Rice usa ka inisyatibo nga naghatag og dako nga tabang sa atong mga pamilya, labi na sa mga nanginahanglan, pinaagi sa pagpalit sa barato ug kalidad nga bugas,” Gov. Romualdo said.
(The AKAP Rice is an initiative that provides significant assistance to our families, especially those in need, by offering affordable and high-quality rice.)
The governor credited President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Speaker Martin Romualdez for spearheading the AKAP Rice initiative and choosing Camiguin as the pilot province for its implementation. He emphasized the importance of their leadership in bringing this innovative program to life and ensuring its success.
Starting December 14, beneficiaries can use their AKAP Rice identification cards (IDs) to purchase rice at a 50 percent discount from accredited retailers across the province.
Among the initial list of participating stores are Davilett Corporation and DL Bonita, Nene Uy Store, Anito Rice and Feeds in Anito, Mambajao, AC Palis Store in Yumbing, Mambajao, TL Sari-Sari Store in Poblacion, Mahinog, Paderanga’s Store in Poblacion, Mahinog, Mac-Mac Sari-Sari Store in Poblacion, Mahinog, 4J OL’SHOP in Tubod, Mahinog, WR Gabutan Store in Mayana, Sagay, and Somobay Sari-Sari Store in Poblacion, Sagay.
“Magdugang pa ta ug mga accredited retailers aron mas accessible pa gyud sa mga beneficiaries ang pag avail sa AKAP Rice, and, of course, dugangan pa nato ang kadaghan sa atong mga beneficiaries soon,” the governor said.
(We will add more accredited retailers to make AKAP Rice even more accessible to beneficiaries; of course, we will also increase the number of beneficiaries soon.)
Romualdo said the launch of the AKAP Rice program makes Camiguin a model for other provinces, showing how teamwork between local and national leaders can solve economic challenges and support communities. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
