ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has launched the “Kadiwa ng Pangulo para sa mga Manggagawa” across all five provinces of the MIMAROPA region for the second consecutive year as part of this year’s Labor Week celebration.
The Kadiwa initiative serves as a direct market platform where the public can buy discounted goods, fresh agricultural produce, and locally manufactured products directly from farmers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). By cutting out middlemen, the program strengthens the connection between consumers and grassroots producers.
In Odiongan, Romblon, a three-day caravan running until May 1, showcases products from 20 participating associations and entrepreneurs. Items include basic groceries, farm produce, and local goods offered at discounted prices to help residents manage their budgets while backing community-based businesses.
During the opening ceremony, Business Development Division head Rocky Lee F. Moscoso of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Romblon emphasized the importance of farmers and workers in sustaining local supply chains and economic activity.
DOLE Romblon Provincial Director Philip D. Ruga cited the importance of multi-agency cooperation in the success of initiatives like Kadiwa.
“Hindi ito mangyayari kung kami-kami lang. Kaya nararapat lamang pasalamatan ang ating mga katuwang — DA, DSWD, DTI, at ang suporta ng LGU Odiongan at PESO. Ipinagmamalaki ng DOLE ang lahat ng manggagawa, anuman ang edad, kasarian, kalagayan, paniniwala, o pinagmulan,” Ruga said.
Alongside the Kadiwa caravan, DOLE is also organizing a labor congress at DOBS Event’s Place in Odiongan, focusing on issues affecting businesses in the construction sector and strengthening labor-management cooperation. (PJF/PIA MIMAROPA-Romblon)
