Residents of Agusan del Sur gained a new source of affordable food as the provincial government and Department of Agriculture-Caraga (DA-13) launched the weekly Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) market in Prosperidad town on Thursday.

The initiative, operating every Friday afternoon at the provincial government center, connects local farmers and fishers directly with consumers, eliminating intermediaries to ensure fair prices.

DA-13 Executive Director Arlan Mangelen emphasized the program’s role in national food security efforts, stating it creates “a sustainable, inclusive food system” for the province.

“The KNP is part of the administration’s flagship initiative on food security, utilizing a whole-of-government approach to ensure sustainable, inclusive and resilient food systems across the country,” Mangelen said in a statement Friday.

Prosperidad Barangay Captain Jissa Vanessa Roldan welcomed the economic boost, noting it “gives our agricultural producers a guaranteed outlet while providing families access to fresh, affordable goods.”

KNP Association president Fernando Sanchez added that the market particularly benefits small-scale producers who previously struggled with distribution challenges.

The launch drew dozens of farmers from across Agusan del Sur, known as Mindanao’s rice granary, with initial offerings including freshly harvested rice, vegetables and freshwater fish from local aquaculture sites.

Provincial Administrator Ronulfo Paler confirmed plans to expand the model to five additional municipalities by June. (PNA)