MARCOS: KADIWA, NUTRIBISKWIT TO EASE FOOD NEEDS OF COUNTRY'S POOR

(22 JULY 2019) - Senator Imee R. Marcos called on President Duterte on the day of his mid-term State of the Nation Address (SoNA) to offer cheaper food prices and better nutrition for the poor by reviving the basic goods distribution network known as Kadiwacenters and the child-feeding program Nutribun of the 70's.

Marcos cited that although the country's inflation rate has gone down, particularly that of rice in the market, the costs of other basic goods like meat, sugar, and various vegetables remain high, affecting the quality of nutrition especially of children in lower-income families.

"It's a big deal for the country's poor, especially those in depressed areas, because about 60% to 70% of their budget goes to food," Marcos explained. "We can start in Metro Manila and gradually include the provinces."

To prevent hoarders or middlemen from negating the purpose of Kadiwa stores, Marcos said that the government should acquire supplies directly from farmers, fishermen, hog and poultry raisers, and manufacturers.

Marcos also expressed alarm that the Philippines is one of nine countries with the highest number of children who are underweight and with stunted brain growth, and is pushing for the early delivery of Nutribiskwit -an improved version of the Nutribun that includes more nutrients, remains mould-free and keeps longer.