Following the successful rollout of the “Benteng Bigas Meron Na” initiative, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is stepping up efforts to integrate its beneficiaries into the KADIWA ng Pangulo Program.

On 16 June, DOLE and the Department of Agriculture (DA) signed a memorandum of agreement allowing beneficiaries of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) to join the KADIWA network as producers, suppliers, retailers, or store operators.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma expressed appreciation for the collaboration, saying it offers more than livelihood—it’s a bridge to better quality of life.

“With the joining forces of DA and DOLE, we fully believe in the great potential of this program to further advance the development of the agricultural sector and stabilize the livelihoods of our workers,” Laguesma said.

As part of the partnership, DOLE will orient DILP beneficiaries on KADIWA operations, ensure compliance with food safety standards, and encourage cooperatives to become DA-recognized suppliers. Beneficiaries will also be encouraged to register with the Farmers and Fisherfolk Enterprise Development Information System.

Laguesma cited early successes of the program, including the awarding of KADIWA retail stores to seven labor organizations during the Labor Day celebration. These efforts reached 152 beneficiaries in Central Luzon, Central Visayas, and Eastern Visayas with funding support totaling P2.67 million.

Among the groups that benefited were Samahang Manggagawa ng Baliwag Transit, Inc., Philippine Mining Service Corporation, Ilaw at Buklod ng Manggagawa-Atlas Fertilizer Corporation, and others.

To ensure the program’s long-term impact, DOLE plans to equip participants with the skills to manage and grow their stores and livelihoods effectively.

The agency is also eyeing the integration of Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) beneficiaries into the KADIWA workforce to address manpower needs.

On 13 June, the “P20 Benteng Bigas Meron Na” program benefited over 16,000 minimum wage earners in 100 establishments nationwide, showcasing the growing reach of KADIWA’s affordable food access strategy.