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Friday, April 4, 2025

Bridging Farmers and Consumers: PHLPost and DA Unite to Expand Kadiwa ng Pangulo in Post Offices


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



In a landmark move to revolutionize agricultural accessibility in the Philippines, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) have joined forces to bring fresh, affordable produce directly to the people. On April 3, 2025, at the Apacible Conference Hall of the DA Head Office in Quezon City, the two agencies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will officially expand the Kadiwa ng Pangulo initiative within post offices across the country.

The signing ceremony was a testament to the government’s commitment to sustainable food distribution, graced by key officials from both agencies. PHLPost Postmaster General and CEO Luis D. Carlos and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. led the momentous event, with Atty. Lori Ann D. Atal, PHLPost's Assistant Postmaster General for Administration & Finance, witnessing the agreement.



A Vision for Food Security and Farmer Empowerment

The Kadiwa ng Pangulo initiative is a game-changing program designed to bridge the gap between Filipino farmers and consumers. By establishing Kadiwa markets in strategic locations, the project aims to eliminate unnecessary middlemen, ensuring that fresh produce remains affordable while maximizing profits for local farmers. Through this initiative, post offices will now serve a dual purpose—not only as centers for postal services but also as hubs for accessible and reasonably priced agricultural products.

PHLPost plays a crucial role in this ambitious plan by leveraging its vast network to facilitate logistics and e-commerce distribution. Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture guarantees a steady supply of fresh produce and essential goods, further strengthening the program’s long-term viability.


Building on a Strong Foundation

This collaboration is not without precedent. Last year, PHLPost successfully set up Kadiwa Pop-up stores in various locations, including Mariveles in Bataan, Tarlac, Olongapo City, San Fernando City in Pampanga, and the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City. The overwhelming success of these pilot sites underscored the feasibility of expanding Kadiwa markets to more post offices nationwide.


Commitment to the Filipino People

During the signing ceremony, Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos emphasized the broader impact of this partnership, stating, “Through this initiative, we are not just distributing agricultural products; we are empowering our farmers and supporting the welfare of our fellow Filipinos by making their lives easier and more sustainable.”

Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing food security. “This is more than just an agreement—it is a commitment to support our farmers, uplift rural economies, and ensure that every Filipino family has access to nutritious and affordable food,” he said.


A Future of Sustainable Food Distribution

The expansion of Kadiwa ng Pangulo into post offices marks a bold new step toward a future where fresh, affordable agricultural products are within everyone’s reach. This initiative is expected to boost local farming communities while providing Filipino households with an easy and reliable way to purchase essential food items.

As this partnership unfolds, it stands as a shining example of how government agencies can work together to create meaningful, lasting change. With PHLPost’s nationwide reach and DA’s commitment to agricultural sustainability, the Kadiwa ng Pangulo initiative is poised to reshape the country’s food distribution landscape—one post office at a time.

China Airlines Unveils Exclusive Flash Sale on AirAsia MOVE: Your Ticket to Global Adventures at Unbeatable Prices!


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Are you ready to embark on your next grand adventure? China Airlines has just unveiled an electrifying flash sale that will set your travel dreams in motion! For one exclusive week only, from April 4 to April 11, 2025, travelers can book exceptionally low fares to some of the most sought-after destinations across Taiwan, the United States, and Canada. The best part? This jaw-dropping deal is available exclusively through AirAsia MOVE!





Fly to Your Dream Destinations at Unbeatable Rates

Imagine strolling through the vibrant streets of Taipei or soaking in the rich cultural heritage of Kaohsiung. Perhaps you’ve always dreamed of the dazzling cityscape of New York, the cinematic allure of Los Angeles, or the breathtaking Pacific Northwest beauty of Seattle. Now, China Airlines is making these dreams a reality with one-way fares starting at just ₱12,760!


With this limited-time offer, travelers can fly to:

Taipei and Kaohsiung (Taiwan)

Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and New York (United States)

Vancouver and Ontario (Canada)


Book Now, Travel Later: Flexibility Like Never Before

One of the most exciting perks of this deal is its generous travel window. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway, a holiday reunion, or a year-end business trip, you can schedule your journey anytime between April 12 and December 31, 2025. This unparalleled flexibility ensures you can seize the opportunity now while planning a trip that fits your personal schedule.


Even More Savings: Special Promo Codes for Extra Discounts!

As if the already-slashing prices weren’t enough, AirAsia MOVE is offering exclusive promo codes to make your booking even more budget-friendly! Here’s how you can save even more:

Use FLY30 to get an additional ₱400 off – no minimum spend required!

Use FLY50 to enjoy ₱650 off when booking flights worth at least ₱10,400.

Simply enter the promo code at checkout when booking through the AirAsia MOVE app and watch your airfare costs shrink even further!


Why Book on AirAsia MOVE?

AirAsia MOVE isn’t just another travel app—it’s your ultimate travel companion, offering seamless booking access to over 700 airlines and more than a million hotels worldwide. Designed for convenience and affordability, AirAsia MOVE ensures you always get the best deals at your fingertips.


Act Fast – This Flash Sale Won’t Last!

Time is of the essence! This exclusive China Airlines flash sale is available only for one week, and once it’s gone, so are these unbeatable fares. Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to secure flights at record-low prices.

Book now through the AirAsia MOVE app and take off on your next unforgettable journey!

Blue Bottle Coffee Makes Its Southeast Asian Debut in Singapore


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



In a significant expansion of its global footprint, the renowned specialty coffee brand Blue Bottle Coffee has officially opened its doors at LUMINE SINGAPORE in Raffles City Shopping Centre. This marks the brand's first foray into Southeast Asia, bringing its meticulous approach to coffee craft to Singapore's vibrant café scene.



From Oakland to Singapore: A Craft Coffee Journey

Founded in 2002 by James Freeman in Oakland, California, Blue Bottle Coffee began with a simple yet revolutionary idea: to serve delicious coffee, roasted fresh and brewed to order, sourced from the world's most sustainable farms. From its humble beginnings as a small coffee cart, the brand has grown into a globally recognized name with cafes across the US and Asia, including locations in Japan, South Korea, China, and Hong Kong.

The new Singapore outlet continues Blue Bottle's tradition of excellence in a spacious 135-square-meter café that seats 42 guests. Located in the heart of Singapore's bustling Raffles City, the café represents a significant milestone in the company's international expansion strategy.




A Thoughtfully Crafted Menu

Coffee connoisseurs can indulge in Blue Bottle's signature blends and espresso-based beverages, including classics like Americano (S$7.50), Cappuccino (S$8), Latte (S$8.50), and Mocha (S$9.50). The café also offers its celebrated cold brew selections, including the signature Cold Brew (S$7.50) and the distinctive New Orleans-Style Coffee (S$8), cold brewed with roasted chicory and blended with milk and organic cane sugar.

Non-coffee drinkers aren't left behind, with refreshing options like Lemon Yuzu Fizz (S$8.50), Kimino Sparkling Apple Juice (S$7.50), and Kimino Sparkling Peach Juice (S$7.50). For those seeking warm comfort, the menu includes Matcha Latte (S$9.50) and Hot Chocolate (S$9).


Local Partnerships: A Celebration of Singapore's Culinary Craft

In a nod to local flavors and artisanal excellence, Blue Bottle has partnered with Bakery Brera, a beloved Singapore bakery established in 2016. This collaboration brings a selection of freshly baked viennoiseries to the café, including Singapore-exclusive creations that marry traditional techniques with local flavors:


Pandan Canelé with Kaya (S$6): A caramelized crust giving way to a custardy pandan interior with a heart of rich kaya

Coconut Kouign-Amann (S$8): A caramelized Breton pastry with a tropical twist of toasted grated coconut

These sit alongside classic offerings like Pain au Chocolat (S$8), Almond Croissant (S$8), and Triple Cheese & Turkey Croissant (S$8).


Design Philosophy: Connection at the Core

The café's design embodies Blue Bottle's "less is more" aesthetic philosophy while creating a space that fosters connection. With no visual barriers, the open layout allows for a natural flow between guests, baristas, and the café space. At the heart of the café is a distinctive U-shaped island bar that offers 360-degree visibility, placing coffee center stage while enabling warm, personal interactions.

The material palette strikes a harmonious balance between modernity and warmth. A stainless steel bar complements LUMINE SINGAPORE's fashion-forward setting, while white oak furniture and leather accents introduce an inviting tactile contrast. Custom oak Taguchi speakers enhance the sensory experience, reinforcing Blue Bottle's commitment to craftsmanship in every detail.


Community Commitment

Blue Bottle's Singapore debut is grounded in meaningful collaborations that reflect its values of craftsmanship and community. Beyond its partnership with Bakery Brera, the café has collaborated with homegrown floral studio The Florté, whose modern botanical arrangements add a touch of local creativity to the space.

As part of its opening celebrations from April 3-5, 2025, guests can personalize their Blue Bottle Singapore Tote at the café with any tote purchase between 12pm and 7pm.


A Sustainable Approach to Coffee

True to its founding principles, Blue Bottle maintains rigorous standards for its coffee. The brand sources beans that exceed specialty-grade standards, with a minimum score of 84 on a 100-point scale (where 80 is the threshold for specialty designation). The majority of its coffees are certified organic, and where exceptions must be made, the company works with suppliers who demonstrate a legacy of environmental stewardship.

Blue Bottle pays premium prices to ensure coffee farmers can sustain best-quality growing practices, with prices at least equivalent to Fair Trade rates and often much higher. Every member of the coffee sourcing team is a certified Q grader, the highest certification a professional coffee taster can achieve.


Looking Ahead

With operating hours from 8:00am to 8:00pm daily, Blue Bottle Coffee Lumine Singapore Raffles City Cafe invites guests to experience its dedication to craftsmanship, environmental responsibility, and warm hospitality. While the brand's mobile app and subscription services are not yet available in Singapore, the company looks forward to evolving its offerings based on local feedback and demand.

As Singapore's specialty coffee scene continues to flourish, Blue Bottle's arrival represents not just a new café opening but the addition of a globally respected voice in coffee craft to the local conversation—one that promises to both influence and be influenced by the rich coffee culture already present in the city-state.

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