KADIWA Summit 2024: Empowering Farmers, Strengthening Communities

The KADIWA Summit 2024 recently brought together farmers, cooperatives, and local leaders for a meaningful event aimed at strengthening communities and empowering the agricultural sector. The event was a celebration of local success stories and a look at how far the Department of Agriculture – Western Visayas has come in supporting our farmers—and how much further we can go together.

The day kicked off with Maria Teresa T. Solis, Chief of Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), who shared a heartfelt message that set the tone for the entire program. Her words, “Climb every mountain and cross every river just to reach you,” reminded everyone present why KADIWA exists: to meet farmers where they are, support them, and help them build better, more sustainable lives for themselves and their communities.

Rhea Cristina G. Resol, Senior Agriculturist, then explained the heart of the KADIWA initiative. She emphasized the importance of helping farmers run their own KADIWA centers, with local governments acting as partners to provide extra support. Resol also emphasized that through non-food processing of the market, KADIWA also shares its part, such as labels, assistance on location-based setups, as well as organization of kiosks and post-processing of food products. This would give farmers a chance to diversify their income and create new opportunities for local businesses to thrive.

The heart of the event was in the sharing of real-life success stories from farmers and cooperatives who have embraced the KADIWA program. Kooperatiba Naton and Barosbos Cawayan Guintigan MPC (BCG) gave inspiring talks about their journeys—what they’ve learned, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the ways they’re growing and helping their communities. Gina Basco, General Manager of Kooperatiba Naton, and Rodel G. Villaco, General Manager of BCG, spoke from experience, giving everyone present a glimpse into the power of unity and shared vision.

Audio-Visual presentations, where the hard work and creativity of KADIWA beneficiaries were showcased. PAROLAS Guimaras (Emhyu Food Products), presented by Rhodora Garonita, gave a glimpse into the unique and delicious products from Guimaras. Produkto de Iloilo, presented by Marivic Pastelero, shared the richness of Iloilo’s local flavors and craftsmanship. And Tubungan Vegetable Producers Association highlighted the strength of local farmers working together to bring fresh produce directly to consumers. These stories weren’t just about business—they were about people, passion, and pride in their work.

The event ended with an open forum, where participants were able to share their concerns, challenges, and ideas for moving the program forward. This open dialogue is key to making sure the KADIWA initiative stays responsive and adaptable to the real needs of farmers and their communities. From operational struggles to ideas for expanding support, the conversation was a reminder that this is a shared journey, and we all have a role to play.

Overall, the KADIWA Summit was not just an event—it was a reminder of the incredible potential within our agricultural communities.###Text and Photos by VNOQuimpo/DA-RAFIS 6