The Provincial Government of Bataan has started distributing rice assistance to more than 30,000 beneficiaries across the province through the Sagip Saka Program, backed by a P118-million allocation from the expanded Local Government Support Fund (LGSF).

A total of 30,257 beneficiaries are set to receive 10-kilogram sacks of rice as part of the national government’s intervention under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. aimed at helping vulnerable sectors cope with rising food prices.

Among the priority recipients are persons with disabilities, solo parents, dialysis patients, and other identified vulnerable groups in Bataan.

Rice distribution has already been conducted in the municipalities of Orion, Mariveles, Morong, Orani, and Hermosa, while remaining beneficiaries in other towns are expected to receive assistance in the coming days.

Governor Jose Enrique ‘Joet’ Garcia III said the provincial government remains committed to implementing programs that ease the burden on Bataeño families.

“Patuloy po nating isinusulong ang mga programang makatutulong na mapagaan ang pamumuhay ng bawat pamilyang Bataeño,” Garcia said.

The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, in coordination with local government units, is overseeing the distribution process.

Aside from providing immediate relief to families, the initiative also supports local farmers through the direct procurement of agricultural produce, helping create a stable market for locally grown products while ensuring that assistance distributed to communities comes from local sources.

The program forms part of broader national efforts to strengthen food security and bring government services closer to communities.