First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on Friday distributed 10-kilo rice each to 3,300 beneficiaries in Novaliches, Quezon City, capping the five-day rollout of her ‘Mula sa Puso Para sa Pamilya’ initiative in Metro Manila.

The program benefited vulnerable families from all 14 villages in Quezon City’s fifth district.

The ceremonial distribution of quality rice was held at the District Center inside Jordan Plains Subdivision in Barangay Sta. Monica.

Under the initiative, beneficiaries received 10 kilos of quality rice as part of the government’s continuing efforts to address the plight of low-income households while sourcing rice from local farmers to boost their agricultural productivity and income.

As part of the culminating activities of the week-long series of rice distribution, beneficiaries also participated in a raffle draw and won additional prizes, including sacks of rice, rice cookers and a television set.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the First Lady for extending the assistance to residents, who will receive 10 kilos of rice every two months for a total of four distribution cycles.

“We are really lucky because today, our First Lady will give you rice. This is the first time you will receive 10 kilos of rice. But you will receive this four times. Every two months, you will receive 10 kilos,” Belmonte told the beneficiaries.

Barangay Gulod chairperson Aldrin Tolentino also thanked the First Lady, saying the initiative is a big help to the beneficiaries, especially senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Sta. Monica village chief Charlie Manalad said the program would provide sustained assistance through multiple distribution rounds.

“Actually, talagang hindi lang maganda. Magandang, magandang programa (Actually, it’s really not just good—it’s an excellent program),” Manalad said.

“Sa aking pagkakaalam, simula nang umupo ako, first time pa lang na magkaroon nito. Hindi lang isang beses ito dahil magkakaroon ng apat na tranches ang ibibigay sa mga beneficiaries (As far as I know, since I took office, this is the first time this has happened. It’s not just a one-time thing because there will be four tranches given to the beneficiaries).”

Celso Garrett, a 52-year-old PWD who underwent kidney surgery and was forced to stop working as a driver, welcomed the initiative and expressed support for the administration. (PNA)