The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Postal Corp. (PHLPost) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a partnership aimed at expanding the KADIWA ng Pangulo program across the country.
The KADIWA ng Pangulo program, designed to provide affordable, high-quality food directly from small farmers and fisherfolk to Filipino consumers, will now extend its reach through post offices nationwide.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. and Postmaster General and PHLPost Chief Executive Officer Luis Carlos formalized the agreement, underscoring the collaboration between the two government agencies to promote food security, improve the lives of Filipino consumers, and make essential food products more accessible, particularly for financially challenged households.
Secretary Tiu Laurel underlined the importance of this partnership, calling it a testament to the power of cooperation. “This reminds us that when institutions come together with a shared purpose, they can break barriers and create meaningful change,” he said.
Postmaster General Carlos expressed gratitude to the DA for the expanded partnership through the KADIWA ng Pangulo program that will now cover 67 post offices in Metro Manila and other areas in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. He said the 6 post office that hosted pop-up KADIWA stores have not only benefitted postal workers but communities served by PHLPost offices.
PHLPost has 1,100 post offices across the country, which could eventually host KADIWA ng Pangulo stores and centers.
The partnership with PHLPost will significantly accelerate the expansion of KADIWA ng Pangulo covered areas, which the DA expects to reach 1,500 stores all over the country by 2028. Under the agreement, the DA, through the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS), will provide technical and administrative support for the operation, establishment, and monitoring of KADIWA stores. The department will also ensure agricultural commodities sold at these stores meet food safety standards, logistics such as delivery and storage are well managed, and guarantee that store operations do not interfere with PHLPost’s core functions.
PHLPost, for its part, has committed to providing physical spaces in identified post offices for KADIWA stores, as well as assisting in the promotion and marketing of the program. The postal service will also provide suppliers with essential equipment, including tables, chairs, and tents, to ensure smooth operations.
KADIWA ng Pangulo is a government initiative that directly markets agricultural and fishery products from small-scale farmers and fisherfolk. The program includes a wide variety of essential goods such as rice, vegetables, meat, fish, and other staples, helping to cut down on middlemen and reduce costs for consumers. With this partnership, the program is expected to serve even more communities, providing affordable food while supporting local agriculture.
