By Freddie Lazaro
LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte -- The provincial government of Ilocos Norte has pledged to help Ilokano farmers in selling their surplus crops through the Kadiwa express program in the province.
This is to address the concern of the local farmers about the oversupply of farm products in Luzon amidst the enhanced community quarantine due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc said: “We are hoping that we can buy produce from our farmers. Umiikot ang Kadiwa Express sa mga bayan ngayon. Most of our goods and produce in Kadiwa Express are sourced locally.”
The Kadiwa Express ensures a 10 percent profit for farmers, while buyers can purchase basic commodities at a cheaper price compared to the prevailing market rate.
“For our farmers who have a surplus na hindi nila mabenta, pwedeng naming bilhin at ibenta sa ibang bayan. We can assist in marketing— finding a market for them whether it be to other provinces or other places,” he added.
To further help farmers cope with their loss of income, Governor Manotoc said the provincial government is looking for ways to assist them in their production site by providing various agri-inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and sprayers.