The newly launched Kadiwa store at the Davao Fish Port Complex in Toril, Davao City marks a new initiative to provide fresh and affordable local products while supporting farmers and fisherfolk across the region, an official of the Department of Agriculture (DA) 11 (Davao Region) said Thursday.

DA-11 Director Macario Gonzaga cited the Kadiwa sa Fish Port’s role in benefiting both consumers and local producers.

“Through our Kadiwa store, consumers can purchase fresh and affordable local products, including fish, rice, vegetables, fruits, and many more, while directly supporting our local farmers and fishers to sustain their livelihoods,” Gonzaga said in a statement.

The Kadiwa sa Fish Port features 13 exhibitors, including farmers’ cooperatives, associations, and agripreneurs, and will be open every second and last Friday of each month.

Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) Port Manager Albert Aguinaldo highlighted the initiative’s impact on community development and food security in the region.

DA-11 also commended the fish port team and exhibitors for their dedication to providing fresh and nutritious products to the public.

The Kadiwa program is a market linkage initiative designed to make agricultural products and essential commodities more accessible and affordable, particularly for vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. (PNA)