₱20/kg rice program exempted from election spending ban - Comelec

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Commission on Elections has allowed the rollout of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) subsidized ₱20-per-kilogram (kg) rice program, granting it an exemption from the election period disbursement ban.

Under the Omnibus Election Code, the release, disbursement, or expenditure of public funds is generally prohibited within 45 days before an election, with limited exceptions. In a memorandum dated Thursday, April 24, Comelec Chairman George Garcia approved the Law Department’s recommendation granting Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel’s request for exemption.

The DA sought an exemption for ₱5 billion in disbursements for its program, which aims to sell subsidized rice at ₱20/kg - widely seen as a step toward fulfilling President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s campaign promise.

In granting the request, the Comelec stated that the exemption would apply prospectively and "shall not in any manner influence the conduct" of the elections.

The poll body also emphasized that the program must not involve the distribution of other forms of social aid or ayuda, and no elective officials or candidates are allowed to be present during its implementation. Additionally, the DA is required to submit periodic written reports on the disbursements. The Comelec reserved the right to investigate potential violations.

Garcia also imposed further conditions: local government units involved in the program must secure their own exemption for the subsidy rate, rice distribution and sales must be conducted only in public spaces, and members of the media and civil society organizations must be granted access to these activities.

The DA earlier announced a pilot rollout of the cheap rice program in the Visayas, while the Palace has confirmed plans for a nationwide implementation within the president’s term.