Naga City: The Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) initiative has expanded its reach by opening stores at the provincial police offices in Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes. This move aims to provide Bicol police officers and their families access to affordable and fresh agricultural products.

According to Philippines News Agency, KNP, a flagship program of the Marcos administration, is designed to enhance food accessibility and support local agriculture by directly connecting producers with consumers. Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) spokesperson Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib announced that the KNP was officially launched on Wednesday at Camp Colonel Juan Querubin Miranda in Camarines Sur, Camp Salvador Escudero Sr. in Sorsogon, and Camp Francisco Camacho in Catanduanes.

Further expansion is planned, with Kadiwa stores set to open in Masbate on April 23 and in Albay and Camarines Norte on April 30. The stores will be available to the public on the 15th and 30th of each month, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with adjustments made for weekends to maximize accessibility.

The initiative originated from a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Agriculture in Bicol (DA-5). Calubaquib emphasized that the program aims to enhance food security and provide direct market access for partner farmer groups. All provincial offices have scheduled the opening of Kadiwa stores in their respective camps.

Representatives from various agencies, including the National Irrigation Administration, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Trade and Industry, and the Philippine National Police (PNP), attended the KNP launch in Naga City. Col. Virgilio Olalia Jr., Camarines Sur Police Provincial Director, highlighted the program as a symbol of governmental cooperation and support for farmers.

The launch in Camarines Sur featured 11 exhibitors. Alden Jesus Ragay, representing DA Regional Executive Director Rodel Tornilla, encouraged ongoing support for local farmers to achieve the vision of a prosperous new Philippines.