By Lane Afable
Vendors and consumers praised President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his hands-on leadership during his visit to the Agora Public Market in San Juan City, where he checked the prices and availability of essential commodities, including agricultural produce.
Agora vegetable vendor Ana Maguddayao said the President’s visit and monitoring efforts are beneficial in keeping prices of basic goods such as rice stable.
“Masaya kami (sa pagpunta niya) kasi mabait siya. At saka ang magandang na ginawa niya ngayon ‘yung bantayan ang mga presyo ng mga bigas at saka ‘yung nga palay,” Maguddayao said.
Marketgoer Julian Atibagos also welcomed the President’s visit, saying it was encouraging to see him in person, helping people and extending support to those in need.
“Mas maganda nga ‘yung pumunta siya rito para makita ng mga tao. Saka mga tao matutuwa sa kanya dahil talaga siya ay tumutulong sa mga mahihirap,” said Atibagos.
The market also features a Kadiwa ng Pangulo stall offering PhP20 rice for vulnerable sectors, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, 4Ps beneficiaries, indigenous peoples, minimum wage workers and other low-income families.
Jesusa Lumugdan, a customer and a beneficiary, said the affordable rice has been a big relief, especially given the current situation.
“Talagang malaking kabawasan po sa ano kasi ‘yung bigas na nabibili ko dito, less po talaga ‘yun sa dati kong nabibili na ano, 50 or 60 pesos po ang kilo… Malaking tulong [ang] ginagawa po niya (President Marcos),” she said.
Lumugdan also praised the quality of the rice despite its low price.
President Marcos earlier assured that prices of food and other basic commodities remain stable and supplies are sufficient.
“But right now, we don’t have a problem sa supply with food. We don’t have a problem sa supply with petroleum products, including fertilizer for the farmers. So that’s our main concern,” the President said.
“So far, we’ve been able to keep everything at normal levels. Everything is normal. No need to hoard. Our vendors are cooperating,” he added
