DAVAO CITY — The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) officially dispatched around 25 tons of fresh fruits to Quezon City and Manila on August 28, 2026. The Kadiwa on Wheels program is bringing Davao's bountiful harvests to consumers across the country while opening wider markets for local farmers.
A Journey of Flavor and Generosity
The shipment includes durian, mangosteen, pomelo, and other locally produced fruits sourced from farms in the Calinan District. These iconic Davao products carry the spirit of Kadayawan's celebration of bountiful harvests. The send-off took place in Bago Oshiro, Tugbok District, marking the start of a month-long journey.
The initiative directly connects farmer-producers with consumers outside Mindanao, eliminating middlemen and increasing farmer income. Consumers in other regions will enjoy Davao's fresh produce at prices comparable to those in Davao. The program makes premium Mindanao fruits accessible to more Filipino households.
Supporting Farmers Through Market Linkage
DA-11 Regional Executive Director Macario D. Gonzaga emphasized the department's commitment to providing farmers with direct and expanded market opportunities. The program addresses the need for market linkage that helps growers earn better from their harvests. This support is crucial for sustaining the region's agricultural economy.
Farmer-producers expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that it provides additional market support beyond local sales. Al-Hadj Benjamin Musa, owner of Visia Fruits & Vegetables Trading, said the program is a great help. He hopes for good sales while sharing Davao's produce with the rest of the country.
A Nationwide Tour of Davao's Best
The first leg of the Kadiwa on Wheels will be held at the DA Compound in Quezon City from September 1 to 3. The market then moves to Kartilya ng Katipunan in Manila City starting September 4. The initiative will continue to other key destinations across the country.
Cebu City will host the market from September 10 to 16, followed by Baguio City on September 25 to 28. The World Trade Center in Pasay City will host the final leg on October 8 to 10. Each stop brings Davao's agricultural abundance closer to Filipino consumers nationwide.
More Than a Market Activity
Beyond being a commercial venture, the Kadiwa on Wheels carries a deeper meaning. It embodies the generosity of sharing Davao's blessings with the rest of the country. The initiative celebrates the region's agricultural heritage while creating meaningful economic opportunities.
The program, led by the DA-11 Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division, aims to strengthen market linkages and expand consumer access. It creates better opportunities for local growers while giving consumers across the country a taste of Davao's famous fruits. The journey is a testament to the power of agricultural collaboration.
