Camarines Sur: The National Irrigation Administration in Bicol (NIA-5) has initiated the daily sale of Bagong Bayaning Magsasaka (BBM) rice in Camarines Sur, aiming to provide clean, newly milled, and affordable rice to the public, especially the vulnerable sectors of the community.

According to Philippines News Agency, NIA-5 spokesperson Ma. Cleofe Baraero stated in a phone interview that the rice, known as Bagasan Ara-aldaw (rice every day), is now available at the NIA-Camarines Sur Irrigation Management Office (IMO) located in Barangay Sta. Lucia, Magarao town. The BBM rice is priced at PHP29 per kilo for individuals in vulnerable sectors, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), and solo parents. Meanwhile, for the general public, the price is set at PHP35 per kilo.

The general public is allowed to purchase a minimum of 5 kg and a maximum of 10 kg of rice. The IMO operates from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Baraero assured that there is a sufficient and available supply of rice to sell every day, sourced from the December harvest of partner irrigators association under the contract farming program.

BBM rice has already been available in various Kadiwa stores throughout the region, albeit not on a daily basis. Baraero added that with ongoing milling by irrigators associations, they are confident in the continuous supply, which is expected to last until the next harvest season in May or June. The contract farming program is set to continue through 2025, covering all six provinces to boost rice production.