The two-day Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP), in time for the Labor Day celebration, kicked off in Antique on Wednesday with 32 exhibitors.

Provincial government KNP coordinator Ge Anthony Recopuerto said they hope to make accessible to consumers, affordable and good quality products.

Among the first exhibitors was the Bugasong Agricultural Cooperative, whose members produce eggplant, okra, and mango.

Guia Reponte, the cooperative’s board of director, said it was their first time to join and they were optimistic about helping their members sell their products.

“Our cooperative has 47 members who are engaged in farming,” she said in an interview.

Thelma Pagsuguiron took advantage of the Kadiwa to introduce Thelisha’s Coconut and Veggie Products, all coco-based products.

“The coconut crisps come in different flavors, such as ube, buco pandan, and sweet spice,” she said.

Gloria Juayang said the KNP provides exhibitors a free venue to sell their products.

“I am really looking forward to joining this year’s KNP,” she said, adding that last year, she earned an average of PHP5,000 a day. She sells taro and camote chips, and ginger and turmeric teas.

San Jose de Buenavsita residents Stephanie Pedrina and Ma. Theresa Diana visited the KNP to buy freshly harvested vegetables and processed food.

“The products at the KNP are of good quality and cheaper than in the market,” Diana said. (PNA)