SMDC helps farmers and residents through Kadiwa Market

SMDC once again shows it is the home of The Good Guys with trailblazing initiatives that continue to extend assistance to communities beyond its own.

Its latest initiative is a partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) that brings the Kadiwa Market to SMDC homes. This partnership not only helps residents gain access to affordable and high-quality fresh produce but also provides farmers with a ready customer base.

The Good Guys Kadiwa Market was formally launched at the SMDC Light Residences on March 6.

“Kadiwa is built on the concept of bringing farmers closer to the consumers,” says DA’s Minky Alba.

DA also plans to bring SME (small and medium enterprises) partners that sell processed products like virgin coconut oil, coco sugar and snack items.

Weekends are abuzz at SMDC homes as both residents and farmers find their happy place in this weekend market. Some farmers weigh in on their experience.

Maribeth Sanchez Farm (Region III): “Shoppers do not need to leave the condominium building to buy fresh vegetables that are cheaper compared to other marketsl.”

John Buena, Farmer Juan Ranch (Batangas): “The pandemic halted our deliveries to restaurants and hotels because they were closed down.

Kadiwa is bridging the economic gap between the consumers and producers. It’s a win-win situation.”

Pacita Yap, Mountain Province: “We planted these vegetables ourselves. You are buying directly from farmers. Some of these are greenhouse vegetables and were grown without the use of insecticides. Kadiwa Market simplifies the process of selling and we are able to count our earnings faster.”

Mark Clave, Dugso Fishermen Cooperative: “Kadiwa Market is about food sustainability and security. Both the fishermen and the consumers win. It gives us a sure market to sell to straight from our farms.”