Bulacan's Vegetable Bounty: DA-CAR's Kadiwa Retail Event Rakes in Success with Low-Cost Highland Produce

 Surge in Bulacan Vegetable Sales: DA-CAR's Kadiwa Retail Event Draws Crowds with Low-Priced Highland Produce

The Kadiwa retail selling activity organized by the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) Regional Field Office-Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in front of the Bulacan Capitol gymnasium proved to be a hit among Bulakenyo consumers. Low-priced highland vegetables from Mankayan, Benguet, such as Chinese cabbage, "sayote" (chayote), cabbage, broccoli, Baguio beans, bell pepper, carrots, cauliflower, and cucumber, garnered substantial sales of over PHP40,000 in just half a day.

Governor Daniel Fernando, in his statement, acknowledged the collaborative effort between the provincial government of Bulacan and DA-CAR, catering to hundreds of Bulakenyos and selling 2,500 kilograms of assorted fresh vegetables. The affordable pricing, ranging from PHP10 to PHP70 per kilo, contributed to the success of the event.

The Kadiwa retail initiative aims to benefit consumers in Bulacan while supporting Cordillera farmers grappling with an "oversupply" of highland vegetables, particularly cabbage and Chinese cabbage. The initiative not only provided Bulakenyos with substantial savings but also addressed the challenge of excess produce in Benguet's local trading posts, leading to unsold inventory and reduced prices.

The Provincial Public Affairs Office of Bulacan highlighted the significant demand, stating that the volume of delivered vegetables, originally intended for two days of sales, was completely sold out in just half a day. Governor Fernando emphasized Bulacan's commitment to national strategies that promote food security and provide assistance to food producers, ensuring the sustained production of affordable goods.