Manila, April 16 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday pledged to expand the rollout of rice distribution programs, as he oversaw the distribution of rice subsidies to Manila residents under the Biyayang Bigas Para sa Maynila.

As part of government efforts to cushion the impact of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, each beneficiary received 10 kilos of rice during the ceremonial distribution at SM City Manila.

In his speech, Marcos said the rice distribution initiative would be carried out nationwide.

"Itong programa na ito ay aming ginawa dahil talagang tinutugunan natin lalung lalo na ang mga kababayan nating nangangailangan ng iba't ibang bagay. Nangunguna diyan ang pagkain (We created this program because we are re...