The Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) in Bulacan generated almost PHP830,000 in sales during its recent launch, giving a big boost to local producers and manufacturers in Central Luzon.

In a report of the Department of Agriculture-Central Luzon (DA-3) on Monday, the total sales in the KNP launching in San Jose Del Monte last April 19 reached PHP839,460.

Around 45 farmers, fisherfolk and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) joined the second KNP outlet in the region. The first opened in Limay, Bataan last March 31.

Among the participants in the KNP in Bulacan was the National Food Authority (NFA) which repacked 40 bags of rice into 5 kilos per plastic container. The NFA rice was sold at PHP25 per kilo.

Also put on sale were various agricultural products, including tomatoes priced at PHP15 per kilo, eggplant at PHP45 per kilo, bell paper at PHP55 and bananas at PHP75 per kilo, among others.

Products made by Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development such as household items, decors, bags and other accessories were also sold.

DA Regional Director Crispulo Bautista Jr. said more local producers and manufacturers as well as sellers and consumers are now enjoying the benefits of the KNP.

Through the direct farm-to-consumer trade scheme of the KNP, Bautista said farmers, fisherfolk and MSMEs were able to earn more.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has vowed to open more KNP outlets in the country.

In his remarks during the KNP opening in Bulacan, he thanked the local government units (LGUs) for their full support of the program that provides accessible and affordable food to communities.

Aside from the outlet in Bulacan, six others have opened nationwide since its launching in February this year. These are in Bicol, Quezon City, Batangas, Luneta Park, Cebu and Bataan. (PNA)