Seized sugar to be rolled out in Kadiwa stores by April for P70/kg
THE DEPARTMENT of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday said it is targeting to sell the 4,000 metric tons of smuggled sugar seized by authorities, possibly for P70 per kilo (/kg), by April in state-subsidized stores known as Kadiwa.
In a radio interview, DA Spokesperson Kristine Y. Evangelista said the department is now finalizing the implementing rules and regulations for the distribution of the illegally imported sugar.
She said they aim to cater to the “most vulnerable sector” based on data consumption within Metro Manila and other areas.
There are about 500 Kadiwa stores nationwide, according to an earlier statement from the Presidential Communications Office.
The P70 per kilo rate was recommended by the Sugar Regulatory Administration, Ms. Evangelista said, but this is still being evaluated.
“They have to take into consideration how much local sugar is. We are also monitoring the mill side so as of now, recommendation is at P70 per kilo,” she said.
Ms. Evangelista also said the DA is looking into the possibility of selling other confiscated smuggled agricultural goods as this is the “best way as of now” to help bring affordable agricultural commodities to consumers.
DA Assistant Secretary Rex C. Estoperez, in a media briefing, said the proposed mechanics for the sales of smuggled agricultural goods exclude perishable products.
“Unlike other agricultural commodities, those perishables such as carrots and onions are easier to be infested,” he said.
Meanwhile, farmers’ group Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) said putting seized goods in the market does not address the problem of rampant smuggling.
“What the President must do is to suppress smuggling, not to legalize the selling of smuggled sugar and other agricultural products,” said KMP Danilo H. Ramos in a statement in Filipino. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera
