DA eyeing Kadiwa outlets in Metro Manila public, private markets
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) is calling for the establishment of Kadiwa stores in all public and private markets in Metro Manila where P29 per kilo rice can be sold to vulnerable sectors.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., during a Metro Manila Council meeting on Wednesday said that out of the estimated 150 markets in Metro Manila, Kadiwa stores are present in 20.
“First is the request of the DA that we’ll be allowed to put up Kadiwa ng Pangulo booths and stores in all public markets and private markets in Metro Manila,” Laurel said. during the Metro Manila.
Laurel added that the stores must “be placed in prominent area to gain maximum proximity so the general public, the consumer will be aware.”
He likewise asked cities and municipalities to help the agency in putting up the Kadiwa booths.
Article continues after this advertisementLaurel also announced that the National Food Authority will sell rice for P36 per kilo to local government units by February.
Article continues after this advertisementHe also said that the agency will bring the price of rice down to P33 per kilo in March.
Meanwhile, he clarified that confiscated smuggled rice would be directly distributed to the public in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, single parents, or beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program can purchase P29 rice per kilo under the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program.