ILOILO City – To strengthen market linkages and support small farmers and fisherfolk in Western Visayas, the Department of Agriculture (DA) launched the Kadiwa Display Center (KDC) on June 23, coinciding with the agency’s 127th founding anniversary.
Located on the ground floor of the DA Region 6 office near Parola Wharf, the KDC offers a permanent venue for agri-based micro-entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products directly to consumers at reasonable prices. The initiative is seen as a strategic move to increase the visibility of local goods and open opportunities for both domestic and international markets.
Regional Executive Director Dennis Arpia and Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) officer-in-charge May Ann Grajo led the launching ceremony, alongside representatives from various farmers’ associations including Carillo Diversified Farm of Bingawan, Idle Lands Farmers Association, and producers from Sta. Barbara, Iloilo.
The display center features fresh vegetables and fruits, value-added products such as chocolate / tablea, jams, pickled goods, special rice, ice cream, and more. Over 50 products from farmers and fisherfolk across the region participated in the opening day.
“The Kadiwa Display Center offers a valuable platform for our small entrepreneurs to promote their products with strong potential for both local consumption and export,” Grajo said, adding that the DA-6 is ready to assist in enhancing product packaging and labeling to improve marketability.
Grajo also expressed optimism that the KDC will serve as a direct link between producers, buyers, and potential investors.
The KDC is open to the public on weekdays./PN
