The National Food Authority (NFA) in Misamis Oriental clarified that the long queues at its redemption site in Baloy, Cagayan de Oro City are due to the daily influx of beneficiaries availing the ₱20 per kilo subsidized rice.
Acting Branch Manager Kharreb Retiza explained that the program prioritizes vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, jeepney and tricycle drivers, rice farmers, fisherfolk, and 4Ps beneficiaries. To prevent abuse, qualified recipients must present valid identification proving their membership in these sectors.
Retiza emphasized that while the growing crowd naturally results in long lines, the NFA continues to implement systems to keep the process orderly and ensure that the rice reaches its intended beneficiaries. Meanwhile, concerned agencies are closely monitoring the distribution to guarantee that the subsidy benefits those most in need.
