In a move to enhance agricultural productivity, Davao City has introduced a solar-powered irrigation system (SPIS) in the Pañalum area of Paquibato District. This pioneering initiative in the city utilizes solar energy to operate pumps that supply water to farmlands, as explained by Gilbert Iglesias, who leads the programs and project management section at the City Agriculturist Office (CAgrO). The system is set to irrigate 10 hectares of land and support approximately 30 farmers. The city has invested PHP1.4 million in this project. Additionally, another SPIS in Barangay Malabog, also in Paquibato District, is nearing completion at 80 percent. This second project, costing PHP2.1 million, falls under the ‘Upscaling Agricultural Support in Vulnerable Production Areas in Davao City’ initiative, funded by the 2024 Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund. Iglesias confirmed that the Malabog SPIS will be fully operational next month.
