President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. on Monday launched the extension of his national program "Kadiwa ng Pangulo" in Cebu City to provide consumers with fresh and affordable agricultural and fishery products.
"Dati ang nagsimula nito ay ‘yung Kadiwa ng Pasko. Gumawa ng Kadiwa para noong Christmas season. Iyon lamang ay napuna namin ay napaka popular at gustong-gusto ng tao dahil nga naman ay may bilihin na mas mura kaysa sa makukuha sa labas," the President during his speech.
As the Agriculture Secretary, President Marcos spearheaded the return of Kadiwa stores in November, a farm-to-consumer market chain that eliminates intermediaries, allowing local producers to generate higher income by selling their produce directly to consumers.
In December, Marcos expressed his desire to make "Kadiwa ng Pasko" a national program that will continue to provide access to lower-priced goods even after the holiday season.
According to the President, there are now more than 500 Kadiwa stores throughout the country.
He added that the government’s plan to launch Kadiwa para sa Manggagawa will be led by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
“Patuloy po naming gagawin ito, padadamihin natin, palalakihin natin at pararamihin natin mas importante ay paramihin lalo na sa mga lugar na talagang hirap ang tao at hindi pa kaya ang mga presyuhan kung nasa palengke,” President Marcos said.
“Kaya’t ito na ang aming sagot doon sa nagiging krisis dito sa ating pagkain sa ating pagtaas ng presyo,” the President added.
At least 50 exhibitors are participating in the two-day Kadiwa caravan where consumers can buy rice at Php25 per kilo, fish and agricultural products, and some of Cebu’s popular delicacies and handicrafts.
Photo courtesy: Rh Leth Narciso via Malacanang Press Corp
