DA aims to expand Kadiwa stores in Metro Manila markets

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is pushing for the establishment of Kadiwa stores in all public and private markets in Metro Manila to sell rice at P29 per kilo to vulnerable sectors.

During a Metro Manila Council meeting on Wednesday, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said that out of 150 estimated markets in Metro Manila, only 20 currently have Kadiwa stores.

San Juan City Mayor and Metro Manila Council President Francis Zamora suggested the use of mobile Kadiwa stores to increase accessibility in larger cities like Quezon City and barangays.

Zamora noted that while setting up permanent booths is feasible, some areas lack space for dedicated structures, proposing a hybrid approach with pop-up booths or alternative locations.

Laurel echoed Zamora's sentiments, emphasizing the flexibility of store placements based on location requirements and availability.