AGUSAN DEL SUR — Local enterprises in Agusan del Sur continue to gain market opportunities through the KADIWA ng Pangulo initiative, with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Agusan del Sur reaffirming its support during the program's third anniversary celebration in San Francisco. Provincial Director Marson M. Dolendo joined the event and highlighted how DTI programs have helped create regular selling opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Spearheaded by the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., KADIWA provides a direct link between producers and consumers, allowing farmers and MSMEs from urban and rural communities to bring locally produced goods to consumers at accessible prices.
KADIWA Opens Market Opportunities for MSMEs
Five DTI-assisted MSMEs under the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Program have participated in the regular Tuesday KADIWA displays in San Francisco over the past three years. Together, the enterprises generated approximately PHP 108,000 in sales while gaining recurring exposure to consumers. Their participation has provided a consistent venue for local businesses to introduce their products, interact directly with customers, and strengthen awareness of their brands. For small enterprises, the regular market presence offers an avenue to test products, build customer relationships, and develop their reach beyond their usual selling channels.
Diskwento Caravan Supports Local Suppliers
DTI-Agusan del Sur also integrated its Diskwento Caravan – Balik Eskwela into the KADIWA market for two consecutive years. The initiative involved nine suppliers of school supplies and garments, giving parents and students access to school essentials at discounted prices. Held alongside the weekly KADIWA market in San Francisco, the activity provided consumers with more affordable options while creating an additional selling opportunity for participating suppliers and retailers.
Partnerships Drive Local Enterprise Development
During his message, Dolendo highlighted the role of cooperation among the Local Government Unit of San Francisco, national government agencies, the private sector, and MSMEs in sustaining opportunities for local businesses. He also acknowledged the LGU for continuing to provide venues where entrepreneurs and producers can connect with consumers. DTI-Agusan del Sur likewise reaffirmed its broader assistance to MSMEs through product development, packaging and labeling, market linkage, digitalization, training, and other business development services. As KADIWA moves into another year, the initiative continues to serve as a link between local producers and consumers. For participating MSMEs, sustained market opportunities can provide an important avenue for generating sales, developing their products, and strengthening local livelihoods.
