Fresh produce and local goods took center stage at the 'KADIWA ng Pangulo' event in Calasiao, Pangasinan, showcasing a variety of items from farmers and small businesses in the province.

The event featured affordable products, including cacao, bangus, vegetables, fruits, and livestock.

Farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to promote their goods.

“Para makilala nila yung aming mga produkto, [at malaman] kung saan nanggagaling,” Florida Melendez, one of the exhibitors, said.

Another exhibitor, Conrado Soriano, highlighted the impact of organic certification on their business.

“Mas nade-develop ngayon kasi, noong na-certify kami as organic farm... lalong dumami at dumagsa yung mga kliyente namin,” Soriano said.

Apart from fresh farm produce, unique food items like mushroom-based Shanghai rolls and siomai were also available.

Visitors like Roger Strickland praised the initiative.

“I appreciate it, all of these… and all these other companies and the government projects that’s helping us out,” he said.

The program, under the Department of Agriculture (DA), aims to help farmers and small businesses by making it easier to market and sell their products directly to consumers, increasing their earnings.

“Upang matulungan din ang ating farmers especially sa marketing side at sa logistic sides po nila,” Gerald Quinit, the event coordinator, said.

KADIWA ng Pangulo continues to support local farmers and entrepreneurs, providing them a platform to grow and connect with consumers.