In a significant boost to the agricultural sector, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) in Bicol have handed over PHP22 million worth of communal irrigation systems to local farmers’ associations. This initiative, announced on February 21, 2025, aims to enhance water availability and improve farming practices across two provinces in the region.
Ma. Cleofe Baraero, spokesperson for NIA-5, highlighted that these projects are in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s goal to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and invigorate the agricultural industry. The funding for these projects comes from the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program-Irrigation Component (CARP-IC), designed to increase agricultural output and support farmers’ livelihoods.
The irrigation systems include a PHP13 million solar-powered facility in Juban, Sorsogon, and a PHP9 million system spanning Malinao and Camalig in Albay. The solar-powered system in Sorsogon, complete with 1,043 meters of canalization, will irrigate 89 hectares of rice fields, benefiting 139 farmers. In Albay, the new irrigation infrastructure is set to enhance the productivity of over 130 farmers and ensure stable water supply across 61.7693 hectares in Malinao and 29.6758 hectares in Camalig.
Baraero emphasized that these developments underscore the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and ensuring food security in the Bicol region.