The Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region (DA-13) has awarded a PHP2.9 million grant to the municipality of Cantilan, Surigao del Sur, under the Enhanced Kadiwa Program (E-Kadiwa) to bolster local food distribution.

DA-13 Regional Executive Director Arlan Mangelen handed over the grant to Cantilan Mayor Philip Pichay in a ceremony held Monday.

The financial support, managed through DA’s Agribusiness and Marketing Division, will fund a refrigerated van to transport fresh agricultural and marine products to Cantilan’s market centers.

It aims to reduce spoilage and improve food safety by providing cold storage for meat and other perishable goods.

The DA-13 said the grant will empower local farmers and fishers with reliable resources to preserve product quality from harvest to market.

In addition to supporting Cantilan’s farmers, fisherfolk and food producers, the E-Kadiwa program offers options for packaging and post-harvest facilities, retail and distribution support, and establishment of Kadiwa stores, designed to streamline food supply chains across Caraga.

Cantilan’s local government said the refrigerated van would play a key role in strengthening the town’s food supply chain, ensuring safe and fresh food for consumers. (PNA)