First Kadiwa Store Opens in Central Luzon, Boosting Access to Affordable Goods
The Department of Agriculture has officially launched the inaugural Kadiwa Store in Central Luzon, located in Barangay Bambang, Candaba town. This significant development marks a major step forward in enhancing food accessibility and supporting local agricultural communities across the region.
Connecting Farmers Directly to Consumers
The newly established store is designed to provide residents with affordable, farm-fresh goods by directly linking farmers to consumers. By eliminating middlemen, the initiative aims to reduce prices significantly while ensuring the utmost freshness of products. This direct-market approach not only benefits consumers but also empowers local farmers by offering them a reliable outlet for their produce.
Comprehensive Offerings and Community Support
Operated by the Bambang Multipurpose Cooperative (BMPC), the Kadiwa outlet functions as a one-stop shop for the community. It offers a wide range of essential items, including:
- Fresh vegetables and meat
- High-quality rice
- Other cooking supplies
The local government has expressed strong support for this initiative, highlighting its potential to improve food security and economic stability in the area.
P20 Rice Project: A Flagship Food Security Program
A key feature of the store is its inclusion of rice under the P20 Rice Project, a flagship food security initiative of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Through this program, qualified beneficiaries can purchase rice at an affordable rate of ?20 per kilo. Eligible groups include:
- Senior citizens and persons with disabilities
- Solo parents and 4Ps beneficiaries
- Farmers, fishermen, and transport workers
- Minimum wage earners
Future Expansion Plans
Looking ahead, the Municipal Agriculture Office is backing plans to establish an additional Kadiwa outlet at the town’s public market. This expansion aims to further increase access to affordable goods and strengthen the local agricultural economy, demonstrating a sustained commitment to community welfare and food security in Candaba and beyond.
