• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The establishment of Kadiwa centers to serve as trading and agri-food terminals in the 3rd District of Negros Oriental is being pushed so that farmers and fisherfolk can directly sell their products to consumers, food retailers, and institutional buyers.
This would cut unnecessary costs and increase the income of farmers and fishers, Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Janice Degamo said in House Bill 03286 now pending before the House Committee on Agriculture and Food.
Degamo said agriculture and fisheries remain the backbone of the rural economy in the district. But she noted that “despite the hard work of our farmers and fisherfolk, they continue to face significant challenges in accessing stable markets, earning fair prices, and transporting their goods efficiently to consumers.”
The persistent layers of middlemen and the lack of local trade infrastructure further erode their income and discourage agricultural productivity, the neophyte solon stressed.
She said the bill seeks to empower the Department of Agriculture, in coordination with local government units, to roll out a comprehensive, localized agri-trade strategy. “Through this (legislation), we invest in the prosperity of our local producers, stabilize food prices for our communities, and promote inclusive economic growth.”
Degamo proposed the allocation of P500 million for the initial year of implementation, adding the establishment and operation of terminals and centers would be funded by the national government with adequate equity from concerned LGUs. | CGC
