THE Department of Agriculture (DA) on Friday signed agreements with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to expand the KADIWA ng Pangulo program. This initiative aims to provide farmers and fishermen with direct access to markets where they can sell their produce to consumers.
In separate events, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. led the launch of KADIWA ng Pangulo stores at both the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame and the AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo. PNP Chief Police General Rommel Marbil and AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. hosted the events.
The KADIWA ng Pangulo centers will be set up in select police and military camps across the country, offering PNP and AFP personnel and residents in surrounding communities access to affordable, fresh agricultural products while simultaneously supporting local farmers and fisherfolk. The PNP employs around 228,000 personnel, while the AFP has about 150,000 members.
“This initiative brings us closer to achieving a sustainable agricultural economy,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel. “By eliminating middlemen, the KADIWA stores ensure fair prices for farmers and lower costs for consumers.”
AFP Chief of Staff Brawner welcomed the DA’s effort to address the needs of Filipino soldiers and their families, particularly in providing fresh and affordable food. “If our country is food-secure—where supply is stable and prices are affordable—we will have a more stable nation,” he said.
PNP Chief Marbil echoed this sentiment, saying the initiative to bring the KADIWA ng Pangulo is a testament to genuine concern of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the welfare and well-being of the men in uniform.
The program tackles two major challenges: increasing market access for producers and offering affordable food for consumers. By linking farmers and fishers directly with institutional buyers like the PNP and AFP, KADIWA promotes a more equitable agricultural ecosystem.
Secretary Tiu Laurel thanked the PNP and AFP leadership for their collaboration, highlighting that this partnership embodies the spirit of bayanihan. As KADIWA expands nationwide, it presents sustainable solutions that benefit all sectors.
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