TAGUIG CITY, Metro Manila—In a show of solidarity with the country’s agricultural sector, PNOC opened its grounds to local producers on July 11, 2025, for the first-ever Kadiwa ng Pangulo market held in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA). The day-long event turned the PNOC Energy Center into a marketplace, offering fresh, affordable, and locally sourced products to employees and nearby communities while directly supporting farmers and micro entrepreneurs.

PNOC Administrative Services Department Manager Atty. Arolf E. Suyom welcomed participants and guests, highlighting how the initiative reflects PNOC’s commitment to employee welfare and community development. “This initiative aligns closely with our Armily culture anchored in malasakit (compassion), teamwork, and service to the nation. Through Kadiwa, we not only promote agricultural resilience, but also community empowerment,” she said.

The launch was graced by Assistant Secretary Genevieve E. Guevarra of the Department of Agriculture’s Agribusiness, Marketing, and Consumer Affairs. In her message of support, she expressed hope that the Kadiwa ng Pangulo would become a regular event within PNOC.

“Taus-puso po ang aking pagpapasalamat sa PNOC sa inyong buong pusong suporta at pakikiisa sa layunin ng programa ng Kadiwa ng Pangulo. Sana po ito ay magtuloy-tuloy,” she said. (My heartfelt thanks to PNOC for your support and participation in the goals of the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program. I hope this program continues.)

Officials from PNOC and the DA toured the booths, which showcased a wide selection of agricultural goods and local delicacies. Among the participating vendors were farmers from Zambales with fresh fruits and eggs; the Agripreneur Farmers and Producers Association with lowland and highland vegetables; and Food Terminal Inc., which offered subsidized rice at Php 20 per kilogram for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, members of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, and solo parents, and at Php 35 per kilogram for the general public under the “Rice for All” initiative.

Other participants included Joyful Organic Farm, Papaping’s Baked Bangus, King Sue processed meats, Aging’s Food Delights, Harvey23 dried and smoked fish, ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative dairy products, Kyla’s taho, Anavill Food Products, and Sheba Pomelo Farm.

The Kadiwa ng Pangulo at PNOC provided employees and guests the opportunity to shop for fresh, affordable, and proudly Filipino products while directly contributing to the livelihood of farmers and micro enterprises. The initiative not only promoted access to healthy and affordable food but also strengthened collaboration between government institutions and the agricultural sector.

With the success of the event and in line with their shared commitment to a food-secure and resilient Philippines with empowered and prosperous farmers and fishers, PNOC and the DA are exploring opportunities to make the Kadiwa ng Pangulo a regular initiative at the Energy Center.