Some 6,854 residents in Talisay City, Negros Occidental have been identified as beneficiaries of rice assistance under the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang, a major initiative under the Bagong Pilipinas Rice Program.

Talisay City is the first local government unit in the Negros Island Region (NIR) to roll out the project during the launching and distribution activity held at the New Talisay Public Market on Tuesday.

In a statement, Mayor Rowena Lopez Lizares thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the national government for giving such an opportunity and showing care to Talisay City.

“This project is a fulfillment of a shared vision to ensure that no one is left behind, particularly the poorest of the poor and the vulnerable sectors,” she added.

The identified beneficiaries, including solo parents, farmers, indigenous peoples, fisherfolk and transportation sector workers, are entitled to receive 10 kgs. of rice every two months to be distributed in four tranches.

“This initiative serves as proof that when national and local governments act as one, we can effectively serve our people and build a stronger, more resilient community,” Lizares said.

The “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” is funded by the Department of Budget and Management through the Local Government Support Fund-Financial Assistance to Local Government Units.

Launched in February this year, it aims to strengthen local government units through increased financial support to help them respond more effectively to the needs and concerns of their communities. (PNA)