TACLOBAN CITY – The ‘Kadiwa ng Pangulo’: Locally Sourced Exhibit, held from March 31 to April 2 at Robinsons North Tacloban, has made a significant impact by directly connecting farmers with consumers, ensuring access to fresh and affordable agricultural products.
Spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture (DA), the event not only helps small-scale farmers, particularly women-led enterprises, but also provides budget-friendly produce such as vegetables, poultry, and rice at just P29 per kilo.
Amid rising food costs, the fair serves as a much-needed initiative benefiting both producers and consumers, agricultural technologist Eliseo Cayrel of the City Agricultural Office said.
“Our farmers face high production costs, and this fair provides them with better market opportunities while ensuring the public can access fresh produce at lower prices,” he said.
More than 10 farmers’ associations from different provinces, including Tacloban, Baybay, Ormoc, and Northern Leyte, participated in the fair, showcasing their products such as pinangat, pili products, chips, cookies, tuba, and other delicacies.
Beyond selling produce, the Department of Agriculture supports farmers by providing seeds, technical training, and business guidance to help sustain their livelihoods.
“The DA is committed to assisting farmers, and there is a strong possibility of holding another Kadiwa Fair next month,” Cayrel disclosed.
Encouraged by the event’s success, the DA is working to further promote the Kadiwa ng Pangulo initiative through media outreach, urging consumers to buy locally sourced products while directly supporting farmers.
(PRINCESS MANZANARES, LNU STUDENT INTERN)
