Ang Pahayagan

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT– To ensure food affordability and economic relief for Filipino workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) –Zambales field office and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officially rolled out the “Benteng Bigas Meron Na” program to 2,867 minimum wage earners employed at Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc. and its associated manpower providers, held at the of Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc. grounds in Subic Techno Park.

This initiative aims to cushion the effects of inflation and high market prices for everyday necessities, especially among the country’s most economically vulnerable sectors.

For its initial implementation in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, the program prioritized minimum wage earners from manpower providers including Synergy One Manpower Services, Technics Manpower Services, One Source Specialized Services Inc., and Timeline Manpower Services—all of whom contribute to the workforce of Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc., a major player in the electronics manufacturing industry in the region.

The success of this initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of several key stakeholders. The SBMA Labor Center, under the leadership of Sir Rommel Aquino and Atty. Melvin Varias, played a vital role in coordinating with the beneficiaries and ensuring an organized and efficient distribution process.

Additionally, Mr. Jon Magtalas of Prime Trucks provided logistical support by handling the transportation of thousands of rice packs, ensuring timely and secure delivery to the distribution site.

The distribution event served not only as a delivery of affordable rice but as a symbol of the government’s commitment to protecting the welfare of laborers through direct intervention and strategic support. According to local officials, each worker was able to purchase quality rice at just Php 20 per kilo, significantly lower than current market rates.

📸 DOLE-Zambales