The Cash and Rice Distribution (CARD) Program, launched on November 5, 2023, by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, aims to counteract the rising rice prices affecting Metro Manila’s poorest. Specifically targeting 10,000 vulnerable residents across 33 legislative districts, the scheme stands as a direct response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s challenge to make high-quality rice accessible and affordable.
Each beneficiary receives four payouts totaling at least P2,000, which includes P950 for a 25-kilogram sack of rice and the remaining amount in cash. The inclusion of senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and indigenous peoples ensures that the aid reaches diverse, needy populations. This scheme, which extends to Biñan and Sta. Rosa City in Laguna, increasing the total beneficiaries to 335,000, is a great step toward alleviating the economic pressures faced by these communities.
UNLI RICE (CARD Program) Philippines
Launched on November 5, 2023, by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, the CARD program aims to support Metro Manila’s poorest residents across 33 legislative districts. This stands as a direct answer to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s challenge to make good-quality rice affordable to communities.
Significance
The Cash and Rice Distribution (CARD) Program holds great importance in the Philippines. Launched as a joint effort by the House of Representatives and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), this directly addresses the pressing issue of escalating rice prices faced by Filipinos. Operating across Metro Manila’s 33 legislative districts, the CARD Program targets 10,000 poor and vulnerable residents in each district.
The distribution is structured into four payouts, with each beneficiary receiving at least P2,000. This assistance includes P950 for a 25-kilogram sack of rice (priced at P38 per kilo) and the remaining amount in cash. The inclusion of senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, and indigenous peoples (IPs) ensures equitable support.
Key Features of the CARD Program:
- Beneficiaries: Targeting 10,000 vulnerable residents per district.
- Aid Distribution: Comprises four payouts, each including at least P2,000, with P950 allocated for a 25-kilogram sack of rice and the remainder in cash.
- Inclusion Criteria: Covers senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, and indigenous peoples (IPs).
- Program Scope: Besides Metro Manila, launches also occurred in Biñan City and Sta. Rosa City in Laguna, bringing the total beneficiaries to 335,000.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Avail of the CARD Program
For eligible participants, accessing the benefits of the CARD program can be a good step towards economic relief.
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
- Check Criteria: Confirm that you belong to one of the eligible groups, which include senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, and indigenous peoples (IPs).
- Residency Requirements: Ensure you reside within the designated districts or regions where these schemes are active, particularly for the CARD program which is specific to Metro Manila and selected areas in Laguna.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation
- Identification: Prepare valid identification documents such as a government-issued ID card. For IPs, an indigenous membership certificate may be required.
- Proof of Residency: Utility bills or barangay certificates can serve as proof of your residence in the target areas.
- Special Documents: If applicable, bring documents proving status such as a senior citizen card, PWD ID, or solo parent ID.
Step 3: Register for the Program
- Local Government Units (LGUs): Visit your barangay hall or municipal office to inquire about registration. These offices typically handle the initial collection of applications.
Step 4: Attend Information Sessions
- Community Briefings: Attend any briefings or information sessions held in your community. These sessions provide important information on the distribution schedule and detailed instructions on how to receive your aid.
Step 5: Follow the Distribution Schedule
- Stay Informed: Keep updated with the distribution dates and locations, which are usually announced by local officials or through community bulletin boards.
- Prompt Attendance: Be present on your scheduled date to collect your rice and financial assistance. Bring all necessary documents for verification.
Step 6: Receive Assistance
- Verification Process: During the distribution, officials will verify your eligibility using the documents provided.
- Collect Aid: Once verified, you will receive your allocated supply and cash aid as per the program’s guidelines.
By following these steps, eligible participants can effectively access the benefits provided by the CARD project, ensuring that they receive the intended support to help mitigate the challenges posed by rising rice prices.
Online Rice Assistance via UnliRice.PH
Filipinos can also register online for the UnliRice Program at UnliRice.PH. This platform provides a convenient and safe way for eligible individuals to apply for rice assistance.
The online system of distribution aims to reach more beneficiaries, particularly those in far-flung areas who may have difficulty accessing traditional registration centers.
In order to register, individuals must follow these steps:
- Visit the website UnliRice.PH and click on “Register Now.”
- Fill out the online registration form with all necessary information.
- Upload a photo of your valid ID (front and back) as well as any additional documents required for eligibility verification.
- Submit the application and wait for confirmation via email or SMS.
- Upon approval, beneficiaries can collect their rice assistance from designated distribution centers within their area on the scheduled date.
Note: Eligible individuals are allowed to register only once per household.
Recent Updates
Cash Assistance and Rice Distribution Program Supports Marginalized Communities in Eastern Visayas
The CARD Program in Eastern Visayas aims to provide essential support to marginalized communities. Through the distribution of over 2 million kilograms of rice and PHP250 million in cash aid, it aims to alleviate the financial burden and ensure food security for 83,000 beneficiaries. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair serves as the platform for this scheme. (PNA)
Cash Assistance and Rice Distribution Program Expands to Benefit More Filipinos
The CARD Program, spearheaded by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, has successfully provided over two million kilograms of rice and P250 million in cash aid to 83,000 beneficiaries in Eastern Visayas. With plans to expand the program to other provinces, the government aims to reach more Filipino families in need, ensuring their access to essential food and financial support. (Manila Bulletin)
Romualdez Reasserts Commitment to Providing Assistance to Filipinos
House Speaker Martin Romualdez reaffirms President Marcos’ goal of providing assistance to the Filipino people through the CARD Program. With over two million kilograms of rice and P250 million in cash aid distributed to 83,000 beneficiaries in Eastern Visayas, it aims to alleviate the financial burden and support marginalized groups. Plans are underway to expand the scheme nationwide, ensuring more Filipinos receive the necessary assistance. (Manila Bulletin)
Philippine Congress Allocates Funds to Reduce Rice Price for 28 Million Filipinos
The Philippine Congress has allocated funds in the 2024 national budget to implement a scheme that seeks to reduce the price of rice for 28 million Filipinos. Through monthly rice discount vouchers, seven million families will have access to affordable and high-quality rice, addressing the issue of expensive rice for disadvantaged households. This is a response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to alleviate the burden of rice costs on Filipino families. (Manila Bulletin)
Video: Cash Assistance & Rice Distribution (CARD) program, umarangkada sa Metro Manila
The CARD program has been launched in Metro Manila, providing essential support to residents in need. This aims to distribute cash assistance and rice to eligible beneficiaries, ensuring their access to financial aid and food security.
Conclusion
The CARD Program, initiated to tackle the rising rice prices in Metro Manila and nearby areas, is essential for supporting vulnerable communities by providing essential food and financial aid. Successful implementation requires collaborative efforts among government officials, community leaders, and beneficiaries to ensure effective distribution and address potential challenges.
Participants should stay informed and engaged with local resources to fully benefit from this assistance, which aims not only to meet immediate needs but also to foster long-term community resilience and prosperity. By uniting to support each other through such efforts, we can create a stronger community where no one faces food insecurity alone.