Camalig: The provincial government of Albay is set to establish a PHP15-million Kadiwa ng Pangulo center in Camalig town to provide farmers and local producers with a permanent venue to market their products and improve access to consumers.
According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Noel Rosal stated that the project will initially receive PHP8 million in funding from the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The initiative is modeled after trading posts in China and Northern Luzon and aims to address the lack of post-harvest and marketing facilities for farmers. The facility will be located within the Albay Bounty Village and will serve as a centralized marketplace where farmers can sell vegetables, poultry, eggs, and other agricultural products directly to consumers.
Governor Rosal emphasized the strategic location of Camalig as a thoroughfare for travelers bound for Samar, Leyte, and Camarines Sur, making it an ideal spot for farmers to market their products. The Kadiwa center will cater to both organic and non-organic products, with minimal fees charged only to cover maintenance and operational costs. The project is expected to create more opportunities for small farmers by providing them with a stable and accessible market for their produce.
In addition to the trading center, the governor highlighted the province's preparation for interventions to mitigate the effects of El Ni±o, particularly on water supply and agricultural production. Rosal stressed the importance of prioritizing programs such as irrigation and water systems to address critical community needs. He pointed out that water shortages could impact several municipalities across the province, including island communities and areas with declining water sources.
The provincial government continues to support farmers by distributing agricultural inputs and equipment. Furthermore, PHP40 million has been allocated for fertilizer assistance to complement the support programs implemented by the Department of Agriculture (DA).
