Baguio city: The city government is preparing to institutionalize a monthly ‘Kadiwa ng Pangulo’ (KnP) activity, aiming to provide an additional venue for small entrepreneurs to sell their products and for the public to access fresh and affordable produce.

According to Philippines News Agency, Councilor Van Dicang, chairperson of the Committee on Market, Trade and Commerce, proposed ensuring the city’s active support and coordination with national agencies to assist residents engaged in small businesses. The initiative plans to source products directly from producers, potentially reducing commodity prices by at least 10 percent compared to prevailing market retail prices.

Councilor Dicang emphasized that the event would be eagerly anticipated by residents, benefiting both sellers and buyers. The KnP is scheduled every last week of the month at Igorot Park, continuing the tradition of past events. Currently, small farmers and producers display their products at the Kadiwa store located at the Slaughter Compound in Baguio City, funded by the Department of Agriculture.

A Technical Working Committee will oversee the program’s implementation, handling tasks such as management, coordination, product identification, vendor and venue scheduling, logistics, peace and order, cleanliness, information dissemination, and sales reporting. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology will also participate, allowing persons deprived of liberty to market and sell their produce.

The initiative aims to provide consumers with safe, affordable, and accessible food and commodities while enhancing market access for farmers, fisherfolk, agri-preneurs, and MSMEs through a structured multi-agency partnership led by the City Veterinary and Agriculture Office.