Manila, Oct. 1 -- The government is activating its PHP20 per kg. rice program in Visayas areas hit by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake for at least one month, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced Wednesday.

In an interview on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry in Pasay City, Tiu Laurel said a team was deployed on the ground to assess areas severely affected by the 6.9-magnitude that struck Bogo City Tuesday night.

"We are food secure at the moment. We have enough supplies," he said.

"Pinabukas ko na 'yong 20-peso rice also in the area na tinamaan for all, for at least one month para makatulong while recovering, including in Masbate and Eastern Samar (I have directed the activation of t...