As part of the 95th-anniversary celebration of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), the permanent structure of Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) in Malate, Manila, was formally inaugurated. DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., led the inauguration alongside Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing, and Consumer Affairs, Atty. Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra and other DA officials, BPI Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban, Assistant Directors Herminigilda Gabertan and Ruel Gesmundo. BPI officials, employees, farmer-cooperatives, and KNP customers witnessed the event.
In May 2024, BPI Malate began hosting KNP at its Multipurpose Hall—an initiative that underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring affordable and accessible food for the public. This effort expanded in July through Rice for All (RFA) and the P29 Rice Program, providing staple food at lower prices to Filipino households.
As of December, the KNP sa BPI Malate has generated total sales of ₱8.3 million, with ₱4 million coming from rice sales alone. These figures highlight the program’s economic success and impact on thousands of Filipino families, giving them access to affordable and nutritious meals.
In response to the growing demand and the need for continuity, BPI took a significant step by constructing a permanent Kadiwa ng Pangulo structure along San Andres Street. This facility ensures greater accessibility and convenience for both farmer-cooperatives or sellers and consumers, allowing them to access safe, fresh, affordable produce.
For years, Kadiwa sa BPI has served as a bridge between farmers and consumers, showcasing agricultural products from various regions across the Philippines. BPI proved its dedication during the pandemic by continuing to host the Kadiwa program despite the challenges. Its strategic location in Malate has made it an indispensable resource for nearby communities, helping ensure affordable and nutritious food is readily available.
Currently, KNP sa BPI offers rice varieties, including P29 and RFA, at an affordable price of 38 pesos per kilo. Soon, additional rice varieties will be made available, providing consumers with a broader range of choices.
More than just a marketplace, KNP sa BPI plays a vital role in promoting food security and accessibility, aligning with this year’s celebration theme: “THRIVE @ 95: Innovating for Climate Resiliency Towards Food and Nutrition Security.”