Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. graced the Trabaho at Serbisyong Pangkalusugan sa Bagong Pilipinas event held today, March 14, 2025, at the Old Manunca Elementary School, Sta. Rita, Samar.

Accompanied by Regional Executive Director Andrew Rodolfo T. Orais and RTD for Operations Larry U. Sultan, Secretary Kiko met the farmers and agripreneurs who joined the Kadiwa ng Pangulo. The official also gave a short talk on how the department can help further advance the agriculture sector in the region.

Aside from the produce from farmers, the rice sold at ₱29/kg was available to the public through the National Food Authority and the National Irrigation Administration.

Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr (PBBM) also made appearance in the said activity. In his speech, President Marcos highlighted his administration’s efforts and reforms to support the agriculture sector, especially in lowering food prices.  “Ang presyo ng bigas sa Kadiwa ay ₱29 na lang. Pababa na nang pababa. Sa itatagal ng panahon, ang Kadiwa ay hindi na lang para sa mahihirap, gagawin na nating ‘Kadiwa for All’. Kung ano ang presyo sa Kadiwa, iyan na rin ang gagawing presyo. Dinadahan-dahan lang po nating baguhin ang buong sistema”.###