Amid a move by the Sugar Regulatory Administration. (SRA) to sell seized smuggled sugar through Kadiwa stores, Sen. Christopher Go asserted that such action must be done toward making sugar accessible and affordable to benefit the poor
“Focus must be on efforts to make such commodities more accessible and affordable to the poor by stabilizing sugar prices and helping address the supply shortage in the country,” Go said.
Implemented by the Department of Agriculture, the Kadiwa program is a government initiative meant to provide affordable and accessible food to Filipinos. Macon Ramos-Araneta
Kadiwa stores sell agricultural products at lower prices compared to those in commercial markets.
“As per report, the Sugar Regulatory Administration amended its rules to turn over confiscated smuggled sugar to Kadiwa stores and sell to the general public at low cost,” he said.
“I agree to this instead of our sugar being wasted. Sell them at low price. What is important is to stabilize the price,” Go said.
Earlier, the SRA has amended its rules to authorize the donation of confiscated smuggled sugar to Kadiwa stores.
The agency is eyeing to roll out 4,000 metric tons of smuggled sugar this coming May.
Emphasizing the importance of ensuring that Filipinos have access to affordable and nutritious food, Go likewise welcomed the possibility that SRA’s move will benefit consumers, particularly those who are struggling to make ends meet amid the economic challenges brought about by the pandemic.
Meanwhile, the senator also renewed his call for the Bureau of Customs to step up its efforts in preventing the entry of smuggled goods into the country.
Go was one of the authors of the measure that became Republic Act No. 11901, expanding the agriculture, fisheries, and rural developmentfinancing system. He has also been advocating for other programs to support farmers and fisherfolk in the country, such as the enhancement of the irrigation of farmlands and expansion of the National Rice Program.