Siargao LGU’s “Bodega ng Bayan” Rice Program Supports Over 1,100 Families ?

Date: June 20, 2025

The local government unit (LGU) of General Luna in Siargao, Surigao del Norte, continues to make a meaningful impact through its rice assistance initiative, “Bodega ng Bayan.” Since the start of Mayor Sol Matugas’ administration, the program has helped 1,134 families across four barangays—demonstrating the LGU’s commitment to community welfare pageone.phpageone.ph+5thephilippineherald.com+5facebook.com+5.

Barangays Reached and Families Assisted

• Tawintawin: 335 households

• Corazon: 245 households

• Magsaysay: 279 households

• Sta. Cruz: 275 households thephilippineherald.com

Each beneficiary received ₱250 worth of rice (5 kg), meant to support their weekly food needs.

On-the-Ground Voices

Tawintawin’s village chief, Ma. Levi Comendador, highlighted that the rice drive has been an ongoing effort since the beginning of Mayor Matugas' term thephilippineherald.com. Among the grateful recipients is 60‑year‑old Lucila Plaza, who shared:

“We are so thankful to the government for this rice assistance. The five kilos will support our food needs for a week.” pageone.ph+5thephilippineherald.com+5facebook.com+5

She also expressed hope that future distributions would extend into more remote areas of the island community.

What This Means for Siargao

• Enhanced food security: Regular rice support helps families meet basic nutritional needs.

• Local governance in action: The LGU demonstrates proactive, grassroots-level intervention.

• Potential for expansion: The success of “Bodega ng Bayan” suggests room for broader coverage.

Looking Ahead

With the program’s momentum, local residents are hopeful the LGU will maintain—or even expand—the rice distribution initiative. There's growing enthusiasm for reaching households in more isolated barangays, particularly those struggling with socioeconomic challenges.

Why It Matters

Siargao is known internationally for its stunning beaches and vibrant tourist scene, but programs like “Bodega ng Bayan” emphasize that the island’s resilience lies not just in its natural beauty, but in caring governance. Focusing on basic needs like food security can significantly uplift the well-being of families—especially in rural coastal barangays.

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