President Marcos Expands ₱20-Per-Kilo Rice Program to Clark Freeport Workers, Launches Kadiwa ng Pangulo Center and CDC Tissue Culture Lab

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has intensified his administration's commitment to direct and dependable cost-of-living relief by expanding the ₱20-per-kilo rice program to thousands of minimum wage earners working in the Clark Freeport Zone. The expansion was officially announced alongside the launch of a new Kadiwa ng Pangulo Center and the formal turnover of a Philippine Coconut Authority’s Crop Development Center (CDC) tissue culture laboratory dedicated to agricultural research and development.

During the ceremony held at Clark Freeport Zone, PBBM emphasized that these initiatives exemplify his governing philosophy of "Maasahan at Masipag" — reliable and hardworking leadership that delivers tangible benefits to Filipino workers. "Through decisive inter-agency coordination, we are ensuring that affordable food is accessible to every working Filipino," he said, underscoring the program’s role as a vital lifeline amid rising market prices.

The ₱20-per-kilo rice program, a cornerstone of the Marcos administration's affordable food initiatives, targets minimum wage earners who face the brunt of inflation. Now extended to thousands within the Clark Freeport labor community, the program makes staple rice available at a fraction of prevailing commercial prices, mitigating economic strain for families.

Complementing the rice subsidy, the newly opened Kadiwa ng Pangulo Center in Clark offers a wide range of affordable agricultural products sourced directly from local farmers. This center is poised to further strengthen supply chains and make nutritious food within reach for the workforce.

Furthermore, the turnover of the CDC tissue culture laboratory signals a leap forward in agricultural R&D. This facility is equipped to advance innovations in coconut growing techniques and crop improvement, aiming to bolster productivity and sustainability in the agriculture sector — a strategic move toward long-term food security.

Presidential spokesperson articulated that these initiatives send a clear message: the government under Marcos Jr. is a "Reliable Partner of the Filipino Workforce," committed to providing "Reliable Support, Tireless Service: Affordable food for every working Filipino."

As the administration continues to roll out integrated programs that blend social welfare, agricultural innovation, and market accessibility, President Marcos reiterated his pledge to maintain dependable and consistent food support, especially for the nation’s backbone — its workers. "Our governance is not just about promises but about delivering relief where it matters most — on the tables of hardworking Filipinos," he concluded.