Quezon City: The Department of Agriculture (DA) has teamed up with the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) to expand the Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) initiative, aimed at ensuring food security and accessibility across the nation, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive.

According to Philippines News Agency, a memorandum of understanding was signed at the DA headquarters in Quezon City, setting the stage for the establishment of 61 new KNP sites this year. This is in addition to the six pop-up stores that commenced operations in 2024. In total, 67 KNP pop-up stores will be set up within PHLPost offices, covering Metro Manila, the northwest part of Luzon, as well as the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

The expansion includes new sites at PHLPost offices in Manila, Quezon City, Pasay, Para±aque, Pampanga, La Union, and Sulu. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the collaboration would facilitate direct market linkage, benefiting both farmers and consumers. He highlighted that the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program is not only about distributing agricultural products but also about transforming sustainability practices and empowering communities.

PHLPost's vast network is seen as a strategic advantage for meeting these objectives. Postmaster General and CEO Luis Carlos expressed PHLPost's commitment to supporting farmers and promoting the health of Filipino families through access to nutritious and fresh foods.

The DA mentioned that while the pop-up stores may not operate daily, they are considering fixed schedules such as bi-monthly operations. With approximately 1,100 PHLPost offices nationwide, Tiu Laurel sees significant potential for further expansion of the KNP initiative under the current administration.

In 2024, the first wave of KNP pop-up stores was successfully launched in locations including Mariveles, Bataan; Tarlac; Olongapo City; San Fernando, Pampanga; and the Central Mail Exchange in Pasay City.