The “Kadiwa ng Pangulo” (KNP), a government initiative that offers agricultural products and other basic necessities to the public at an affordable price, has landed at the general headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

AFP Chief, General Romeo Brawner Jr. led the ceremonial launch of the Kadiwa market on Friday, Feb. 21, highlighting the military’s “continued commitment to support government initiatives that promote food security, economic growth, and sustainable livelihood for Filipinos.”

He emphasized the importance of KNP’s role in strengthening the agricultural sector and empowering local farmers, fisherfolk, and micro-enterprises.

“The AFP remains steadfast in supporting initiatives that go beyond defense and contribute to the well-being of the Filipino people,” he said.

“Through partnerships with government agencies and civil society, the AFP continues to uphold its mandate in ensuring not only national security but also economic resilience, social stability, and sustainable progress,” the military chief added.

After the launch, military personnel and residents in Barangay Camp Aguinaldo were allowed to explore the Kadiwa booths to buy food.

The price of rice ranges from P29 to P43 per kilo under the government’s Rice For All (RFA) program, far from the regular-priced P43 to P62 per kilo of rice in the wet market.

First established during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Kadiwa program was developed by the Department of Agriculture (DA) to link local agri-food producers directly with consumers, improving food mobilization and stabilizing prices amid economic challenges. 

It seeks to establish the smooth distribution of affordable rice at P40 per kilo with a 25-kilogram limit per person, ensuring stable food supply as it enables farmers to sell directly to consumers by removing market layers. 

It also establishes additional markets for farmers, fisherfolks and micro enterprises to sell locally produced agri-fishery products and basic necessities.