CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – In its ongoing efforts to promote food security, sustainable agriculture, and inclusive economic growth, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) has expanded its flagship KADIWA ng Pangulo (KNP) in El Salvador City and at two new sites in CdeO City–at The PHILPOST in Macabalan and Camp Alagar in Lapasan–on May 30.
The KNP initiative serves as a direct marketing platform that links local farmers, fisherfolk, and small-scale producers directly with consumers – primarily government employees and surrounding communities–ensuring access to affordable, high-quality, and locally sourced products while augmenting the income of rural producers.
Spearheaded by the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), KNP is designed to operate twice monthly, aligning with employee salary release periods to optimize consumer turnout and market activity.
By facilitating farm-to-consumer trade, especially within urban areas, the KNP aims to strengthen agricultural resilience, reduce postharvest losses, stabilize food prices, and empower agri-based enterprises. This is in line with President Marcos’ thrust of making the agricultural sector as a key driver of economic development.
During the launch, a range of exhibitors showcased their goods:
- Miarayon Highland Farmers Association – assorted vegetables, fruits, and spices
- Northern Mindanao Federation of Dairy Cooperatives – fresh and flavored milk
- RBS Universal Grains, Corp. – rice
- MK Trading – fresh and processed fishery items
- SLERS – chicharon
- Beehive – essential goods
- Pathfinder – essential goods
Through the KNP, the DA-10 continues to scale up its agri-sector potential across the region by invigorating economic activities, at the same time creating inclusive, self-sustaining food systems that benefit producers and consumers alike.(NQA)
