One hundred seventy-one (171) micro rice retailers in Ilocos Region each received P15,000 cash assistance under the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). Said 171 micro rice retailers in public markets were validated to be compliant to Executive Order (EO) 39 which imposes Mandated Price Ceilings on Regular-Milled Rice at P41.00 per kilogram and Well-Milled Rice at P45.00, respectively. 

The Department of Trade and Industry has conducted monitoring activities in key cities and municipalities since the effectivity of EO 39 on September 5, 2023. As a result of said monitoring activities 175 Micro Rice Retailers found to be compliant were endorsed to DSWD as possible beneficiaries under the SLP of the DSWD. Pay out for the other four beneficiaries shall be done after completion of the requirements prescribed under the SLP.  

A total of Php 2,565,000.00 SLP funds was distributed by DSWD in the 12 key cities and municipalities in the region with the assistance of the LGUs, DTI, DILG and DA. The cash assistance aims to ensure availability of affordable rice for consumers.  

Payout areas include the cities of Alaminos, San Carlos and Dagupan in Pangasinan; the cities of Laoag and Batac in Ilocos Norte; Candon and Vigan City in Ilocos Sur and; the City of San Fernando in La Union. Other areas include the municipalities of Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur; San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, Agoo and Naguilian in La Union.

DTI, DA and NFA shall continue to monitor the compliance of rice retailers until the lifting of the EO 39. Compliant micro rice retailers are advised to coordinate until September 18, 2023 with their respective LGUs, DTI Provincial Offices and Negosyo Centers for possible inclusion to the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). ♦

Date of release: 20 September 2023