MANILA -- The “Kadiwa ng Pasko” project of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is seen to benefit thousands of farmers and fisherfolk by providing them additional profits.

The project, which seeks to make food products affordable, was launched by the chief executive in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday.

Chona, a farmer from Quezon who faced challenges in selling her products, said the Kadiwa project is a game-changer for many Filipino farmers and fisherfolk who need to make ends meet.

“Sa hirap po ng pagbebenta, talagang mangiyak-ngiyak ka bago mo ma-harvest. Tapos pag na-harvest mo, hindi naman siya mabebenta nang ganun ka-mahal,” said Chona.

Through the nationwide launch of Kadiwa centers, farmers will be freed from the control of unscrupulous traders and middlemen.

In his speech, the President said the project aims to effectively promote the growth of local agricultural markets.

“Isa na itong Kadiwa ng Pasko na ipapagpatuloy natin kahit na pagkatapos ng Pasko, at ito ay isa sa mga maaaring gawin ng inyong pamahalaan para tulungan ang bayan para naman maging mas maluwag ang buhay ng ating mga kababayan,” the President pointed out.

The program aims to provide a market to local farmers and fishermen for their produce and small business enterprises selling basic necessities.

Fourteen sites were opened simultaneously across the country on Wednesday, including 11 in the National Capital Region, one in Tacloban City, one in Davao De Oro and one in Koronadal City, South Cotabato. (PND)