Lapu-Lapu City Enhances Food Security with P3 Million Rice Procurement
The Lapu-Lapu City Government has committed P3 million from its General Fund to acquire additional rice supplies, significantly bolstering its ongoing P20-per-kilo subsidized rice program. This strategic move is designed to widen access for residents, ensuring more households can benefit from affordable staple food.
Expanding Distribution to Remote Areas
Councilor Annabeth Cuizon, who chairs the committee on social services, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, confirmed that the necessary documentation for this initiative was submitted to Manila on Friday, April 17, 2026. The first scheduled withdrawal of rice is set for Thursday, April 23, 2026. In an earlier interview, Cuizon emphasized that the additional supply will enable the City to conduct a parallel distribution system. This approach ensures that residents in mainland barangays, Olango Island, and nearby islets are included, addressing gaps in food accessibility.
Phased Procurement and Sustained Efforts
The P3 million allocation is part of a larger P10 million Food Security program approved under Supplemental Budget 1. Procurement will be carried out in phases, aligned with available inventory from the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI). Once the initial batch of 3,000 sacks is sold out, the City Government plans to purchase another batch to maintain the initiative's momentum. Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan spearheaded this procurement to supplement stocks sold at subsidized rates, building on rice already distributed through FTI.
Prioritizing Vulnerable Sectors and Broader Beneficiaries
The subsidized rice program primarily covers vulnerable sectors identified by FTI, but a city ordinance allows the City Government to include additional qualified beneficiaries as distribution expands. During the City Government's third Crisis Management Meeting, Mayor Chan announced that the National Government's P20-per-kilo rice program has been extended to Olango Island and nearby islets in Barangay Caubian. To date, 116 sacks of rice were distributed in Barangays Pangan-an and Caohagan on Olango Island, while 90 sacks were delivered to Caubian, benefiting over 1,000 listed individuals, including 138 from Caohagan, 438 from Pangan-an, and 429 from Caubian.
Comprehensive Support Measures Amid Economic Challenges
During the meeting, Mayor Chan, along with department heads and officials, outlined and strengthened several priority interventions to support residents affected by rising fuel and commodity prices. Key measures include the implementation of a Cash-for-Work program targeting jeepney drivers, pump boat operators, and affected commuters to help sustain their daily needs. Additional assistance programs were discussed, such as distributing five kilograms of rice to displaced workers at the Mactan Export Processing Zone and providing financial aid to nearly 800 registered fisherfolk.
The continuation of the Libreng Sakay program was reaffirmed, offering free transportation services during peak hours and fuel subsidies. Furthermore, the General Services Office reported that ongoing energy efficiency measures have generated nearly P700,000 in savings for the City Government, demonstrating a commitment to fiscal responsibility while addressing community needs.
