DA-CAR Intensifies Kadiwa ng Pangulo to Support Cordillera Farmers
The Department of Agriculture Cordillera (DA-CAR) is ramping up the implementation of the Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) program to protect local farmers from the economic pressures of rising fuel prices. By strengthening market linkages, the agency is ensuring that highland vegetable produce reaches consumers efficiently while providing farmers with a reliable way to sell their goods.
- DA-CAR is using Kadiwa trucks to bypass traditional bottlenecks and move produce.
- Over 27 tons of highland vegetables have been transported and sold through these linkages.
- La Trinidad, Benguet, has officially institutionalized the Kadiwa program through a local ordinance.
- The initiative supports both local farmers and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Combatting Fuel Costs and Market Instability
Rising fuel prices have created significant challenges for farmers in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). To mitigate these costs, DA-CAR has intensified Kadiwa market linkages. This strategy allows farmers to market their vegetable produce more effectively, reducing the financial burden caused by volatile transport costs.
Logistics and Distribution Efficiency
A critical component of this effort is the deployment of specialized transport. DA-CAR has utilized Kadiwa trucks to facilitate the movement of produce from farms to consumers. According to the Philippine News Agency, at least 27.89 tons of highland vegetables were transported and sold through these agency-facilitated linkages, directly increasing consumer access to affordable produce.
Institutionalizing Support in Benguet
Local government units are now moving to make these temporary relief measures permanent. In La Trinidad, Benguet, the municipal council passed an ordinance—approved by the mayor on May 19—to institutionalize the conduct of the Kadiwa ng Pangulo trade fair. Nida Organo, the municipal agriculture officer, noted that this move ensures the program remains a consistent resource for the community.
Community and MSME Integration
The program isn’t limited to large-scale farming. In Benguet, the provincial government spearheads regular Kadiwa ng Pangulo activities where local farmers and MSMEs bring their products to sell. These trade fairs target a diverse group of buyers, including:
- Government employees and officials
- Agency clients
- Nearby residents
By selling directly to these groups, producers can offer affordable prices to consumers while maintaining better profit margins for themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of Kadiwa ng Pangulo in CAR?
The primary goal is to help farmers market their vegetable produce and provide consumers with access to affordable food, particularly during periods of rising fuel prices or vegetable oversupply.
How many vegetables have been moved via Kadiwa trucks?
DA-CAR reported that at least 27.89 tons of highland vegetables have been transported and sold through these facilitated linkages.
Which local government has institutionalized the Kadiwa program?
La Trinidad, Benguet, has institutionalized the trade fair through a municipal ordinance approved on May 19.
Looking Ahead
As the Department of Agriculture continues to mobilize resources—including the deployment of trucks to address vegetable oversupply in Benguet—the focus remains on stabilizing the supply chain. By shifting from ad-hoc interventions to institutionalized ordinances and strengthened logistics, the region is building a more resilient agricultural market for both the producer and the consumer.