ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Mimaropa region is joining forces with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Romblon province to compile the final list of rice retailers eligible to receive government cash assistance.

DTI Mimaropa's Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Regional Director Rodolfo Mariposque, during a press conference held in Odiongan, disclosed that 12 rice retailers are currently undergoing verification through the provincial office.

Mariposque mentioned that as of Monday, out of the 136 rice retailers in the province, 12 have adjusted their rice prices in accordance with the Executive Order No. 39 issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

"We have already coordinated with DSWD on this matter. They have informed us that DSWD is prepared and awaiting DTI's endorsement," according to Mariposque.

He further explained that small-scale retailers are eligible for a maximum subsidy of P15,000, while sari-sari store owners who also sell rice will receive a minimum of P5,000. This financial assistance aims to mitigate the potential losses incurred by retailers due to the government-imposed price ceiling.

Under EO 39 which took effect September 5, regular milled rice (RMR) was given a price cap of P41 per kilo, while the well-milled rice (WMR) was given a ceiling of P45 per kilo. (PJF/PIA Mimaropa - Romblon)