Kadiwa ng Pangulo (KNP) stores will soon rise in select housing projects of the National Housing Authority as parts of efforts to make cheaper food more accessible, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Friday.

In a statement, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the KNP program is not just an initiative but a “concrete” action in response to the present agricultural and economic challenges.

“I am pleased to witness another milestone in the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program, expanding its reach to more Filipinos and reinforcing our commitment to food security, affordability, and accessibility,” he said.

On Thursday, the DA signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the NHA to secure a framework for putting up KNP sites in NHA-designated areas, in line with the food security targets of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration.

“This memorandum of understanding between the Department of Agriculture and the NHA represents a crucial step in integrating food security into housing communities,” Tiu Laurel said.

“Providing homes is essential, but true community development goes beyond shelter. It must also include sustainable food systems, livelihood opportunities, and economic stability,” he added.

For his part, NHA General Manager Joeben Tai said the move shows their support for the administration’s food security and accessibility programs.

“This is our way of helping residents in NHA housing projects improve their daily lives. The MOU also aims to enhance the livelihoods of our farmers,” he said.

Under the MOU, the DA will help NHA identify areas for KNP site establishment and provide the housing body with both technical and logistic support. (PNA)