Davao — Tropical fruit lovers across the Philippines are in for a delicious treat as the Department of Agriculture in the Davao Region (DA-11) rolls out the popular "Kadiwa on Wheels" program. Designed to bring the rich agricultural harvest of Region 11 directly to major urban centers, the upcoming initiative will supply fresh, premium durian and other exotic seasonal fruits to consumers in Manila, Baguio, and Cebu. Announced by DA-11 Regional Director Macario Gonzaga, the program serves a dual purpose: expanding vital market access for local farmers while offering urban households direct access to fresh, high-quality regional produce.
Empowering Local Farmers and Stabilizing Farmgate Prices
The strategic mobile market rollout comes as a direct response to a doubled regional harvest, with local fruit growers expressing concern over potential market saturation and suppressed farmgate prices. By cutting out traditional middlemen and transporting harvests straight to consumer-dense cities, the Kadiwa initiative ensures that hardworking farmers receive fair compensation for their labor. Regional directors across Manila, Baguio, and Cebu have enthusiastically welcomed the partnership, confirming their readiness to receive and distribute the incoming agricultural shipments to eager local buyers.
Highlighting Davao’s Abundant Orchard Harvests Beyond Durian
While world-famous durian takes center stage—especially with production rebounding and increasing by 1.56 percent following weather-induced dips in previous years—the mobile markets will showcase a colorful variety of regional produce. Shoppers can look forward to purchasing premium mangosteen, sweet lanzones, rambutans, avocados, marang, and pomelo straight from Davao orchards. This comprehensive showcase coincides with the festive launch of the 12th Kadayawan Durian Festival at SM Lanang in partnership with local industry associations, celebrating the region's unmatched agricultural bounty.
Expanding International Footprints Alongside Domestic Success
Alongside the domestic Kadiwa rollout, Davao's agricultural sector is making major waves on the global stage, highlighted by a successful trial export shipment of 1.08 metric tons of fresh Puyat and Duyaya durian to Muscat, Oman. This international milestone builds upon established trade channels in China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea, proving that Davao-grown fruits are increasingly trusted by global buyers. Whether expanding into Middle Eastern markets or delighting domestic shoppers in Cebu and Luzon, the region’s agricultural community continues to set new benchmarks for growth and quality.
